Machinist or tool and die maker workers set up and operate computer-controlled and mechanically-controlled machine tools to produce precision metal parts, instruments, and tools. At McCormick Law Office we represent machinists with workers compensation low back and neck injuries. Physical aspects of the work include aligning, securing and adjusting cutting tools and pieces as they monitor and feed the machines. Parts must be turned, milled, drilled, shaped and grinded to specifications. They may have to smooth and polish tool surfaces and dies.
Machinists handle lathes, milling machines, and grinders, to manufacture precision metal parts. While some tools are computer controlled, others are manually manipulated which can result in a traumatic workers compensation injury. In our practice we are more likely to see a machinist or tool and die maker with a lumbar or cervical injury from job duties over time. Low back injuries may include degenerative disc disease, herniated discs, bulging discs, facet stenosis, ligamentum flavum hypertrophy, bone spurs, disc desiccation and central canal stenosis. These potentially disabling conditions can result in fusion, laminectomy, discectomy or foraminotomy surgery. Time off due to a work related injury should result in temporary total disability benefits which are paid weekly. If at the end of the healing period there is a permanent injury, then permanent partial disability benefits are due and payable monthly.
Machinists and tool and die makers must be able to manipulate and operate milling machines, lathes, grinders, laser and water cutting machines, wire electrical discharge machines, and other machine tools. Being mechanically inclined is a must. Machinist must be physically able to handle a variety of hand tools and power tools. Physical stamina is required to endure long periods of standing and performing repetitious movements is important for machinists and tool and die makers, it is here where permanent physical restrictions from a work-related low back or neck injury can jeopardize a career.
McCormick Law Office attorneys support organized labor including machinist or tool and die maker IAM District 10, Lodge 66, Lodge 34 and Lodge 78 and Lodge local 510. President Kennedy said this about labor:
Our labor unions are not narrow, self-seeking groups. They have raised wages, shortened hours and provided supplemental benefits. Through collective bargaining and grievance procedures, they have brought justice and democracy to the shop floor. But their work goes beyond their own jobs, and even beyond our borders.
Our unions have fought for aid to education, for better housing, for development of our national resources and for saving the family-sized farms. They have spoken, not for narrow self-interest, but for the public interest and for the people.
— John F. Kennedy, Aug. 30, 1960
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