A carpenter workers comp claim in Wisconsin can come from a single traumatic accident or lifting incident. A carpenter helps lift some framing, feels immediate low back pain, perhaps shooting pain down the leg. More likely though, carpenters work through many days of low back pain until one day it causes the carpenter to see a doctor. In carpenter workers comp cases without a clear single incident, we make what is called an occupational claim. In an occupational claim we prove that the carpenter’s job duties over time contributed to his low back deterioration, herniated disc and possible low back surgery.
Carpenters construct and repair building frameworks and structures–such as stairways, doorframes, partitions, rafters, and bridge supports–made from wood and other materials. They also may install kitchen cabinets, siding, and drywall.
Very generally, a rough carpenter makes things like frames and supports; a finish carpenter makes things like cabinets and furniture. Although framing a specially milled window or door could definitely be considered finish carpentry. Both carpenter jobs are physically demanding contributing to lumbar surgery or cervical surgery.
Carpenters responsibilities include following blueprints and building plans; carpenters get hurt on the job installing structures and fixtures, such as windows and molding; measure, cut, and shape wood and other materials; construct building frameworks, including walls, floors, and doorframes, erect, level, and install building framework.
Carpenters use many different hand and power tools including hand tools, squares, levels, and chisels, as well as many power tools, such as sanders, circular saws, nail guns, and welding machines. Carpenters fasten materials together with nails, screws, staples, and adhesives.
Carpentry work is strenuous causing low back pain and neck injuries over time. Prolonged standing, climbing, bending, and kneeling often are necessary. Carpenters risk injury working with sharp or rough materials, using sharp tools and power equipment, and working in situations where they might slip or fall. Although many carpenters work indoors, those that work outdoors are subject to variable weather conditions.
Most carpenters wear a tool belt weighing up to 20 lbs. Carpenters lift up to 50-75 lbs. and push and pull much heavier weights. In addition to continuous standing and walking, carpenters have to crouch, stoop, bend, squat, kneel, crawl, reach and balance on uneven surfaces. It is the repetitive bending, twisting and turning at the waist that causes low back pain. Neck injuries often come from reaching overhead and hyperextending the cervical spine.
McCormick Law Office attorneys in Milwaukee, Wisconsin represent union carpenters and non-union carpenters in workers compensation claims for low back surgery and neck surgery. Workers comp benefits for carpenters often include TTD, PPD and loss of earning capacity benefits if permanent work restrictions are assigned.
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