Workplace injuries can happen in any industry, from construction sites to corporate offices. In Pennsylvania, thousands of workers are hurt each year on the job, leading to missed work, mounting medical bills, and long-term health challenges. Knowing the most common types of injuries and how they occur can help employees take preventive steps—and better understand their rights if something goes wrong.
Below, we explore the most frequent workplace injuries reported across Pennsylvania industries and what injured workers should know about their options.
1. Overexertion Injuries Are a Leading Cause of Lost Workdays
Overexertion injuries happen when workers push their bodies too far—lifting, pulling, carrying, or even typing without proper breaks. In Pennsylvania, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) routinely identifies overexertion as one of the top causes of nonfatal occupational injuries.
Common overexertion-related issues include:
- Back strain from lifting heavy objects
- Muscle tears or joint injuries
- Repetitive stress injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome
These injuries are especially common in manufacturing, warehousing, health care, and retail. Without proper training and ergonomic safeguards, workers can suffer long-term impairments.
2. Slips, Trips, and Falls Are Widespread Across Industries
Falls remain one of the most common causes of workplace injury, regardless of occupation. According to the BLS, falls accounted for over 20% of Pennsylvania’s reported occupational injuries in recent years.
Typical scenarios include:
- Slipping on wet floors or icy walkways
- Tripping over loose cords or uneven surfaces
- Falling from ladders or scaffolding on construction sites
Even a seemingly minor fall can lead to broken bones, concussions, or spinal injuries—especially for older workers or those in physically demanding jobs.
3. Struck-by Object Accidents Are Especially Prevalent in Construction
In construction, transportation, and manufacturing, workers frequently report injuries caused by being struck by tools, machinery, or falling debris. These accidents can be unpredictable and severe, often involving:
- Head trauma from falling objects
- Crush injuries from forklifts or moving equipment
- Lacerations from tools or sharp materials
Despite safety regulations, these incidents remain a significant source of injury in Pennsylvania’s labor-intensive sectors.
4. Caught-in or Caught-between Incidents Can Be Catastrophic
When a worker is caught in or between machinery, equipment, or structural materials, the consequences can be life-threatening. These injuries occur most often in:
- Factories with heavy mechanical operations
- Construction zones with moving parts and limited clearance
- Agriculture and logging operations
Examples include limbs caught in rotating equipment or being pinned between a vehicle and a fixed object. These situations often result in amputations, fractures, or crushing injuries that require lengthy recovery.
5. Exposure to Harmful Substances or Environments
Workers in Pennsylvania are regularly exposed to hazardous substances or dangerous environments—especially in sectors like chemical manufacturing, waste management, and emergency services.
This category includes:
- Respiratory issues from inhaling toxic fumes or dust
- Skin burns from chemicals or extreme temperatures
- Hearing loss from prolonged exposure to loud equipment
In some cases, these injuries develop gradually, making it harder to link them directly to the workplace without thorough documentation and medical analysis.
6. Repetitive Motion Injuries Often Go Unnoticed Until Serious
Not all workplace injuries happen suddenly. Some build over months or years—like repetitive motion injuries that affect joints, tendons, and nerves. These are common in jobs requiring:
- Continuous typing or data entry
- Assembly line work
- Tool use requiring repeated hand or wrist motion
Carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and chronic joint pain are common complaints. Left untreated, these injuries can limit mobility and force career changes.
7. Transportation Incidents Rank Among the Deadliest
For workers who drive as part of their job—such as truck drivers, delivery personnel, or utility workers—motor vehicle crashes remain a top risk. In fact, transportation-related accidents are among the leading causes of workplace fatalities in Pennsylvania.
Even minor on-the-job vehicle collisions can result in:
Because these incidents often involve third-party drivers, they may trigger both workers’ comp and separate liability claims.
8. Violence in the Workplace Is an Increasing Concern
While less talked about, workplace violence—including physical altercations, assaults, and threats—has become a growing issue. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has recognized violence as a serious occupational hazard, particularly in health care, education, and public service roles.
Examples include:
- Assaults by patients or clients
- Physical fights between co-workers
- Threats that lead to psychological trauma
Mental health injuries are more difficult to prove under Pennsylvania workers' compensation law but may still be compensable in some cases, particularly if linked to a violent incident.
Steps For Pennsylvania Workers to Take After an Injury
When an injury happens on the job, immediate action is critical. Here’s what employees in Pennsylvania should do:
- Report the injury to a supervisor within 120 days (though the sooner, the better)
- Seek medical attention and follow up with approved workers’ comp doctors
- Document everything, including photos, witness statements, and medical records
- File a claim for workers’ compensation benefits, which can include lost wages, medical expenses, and vocational rehab
Pennsylvania’s workers’ comp system is designed to support injured workers regardless of fault—but delays or errors in reporting can jeopardize eligibility.
Know When to Seek Help From a Pennsylvania Workers' Compensation Attorney
While many claims are resolved through standard workers’ compensation channels, some cases require legal support—especially when:
- The employer disputes the claim
- A third party may be liable (such as a contractor or manufacturer)
- The injury results in long-term disability or significant wage loss
- The worker is pressured to return before medically ready
An experienced Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorney can guide injured workers through appeals, independent medical evaluations, and settlement negotiations.
Conclusion
Workplace injuries in Pennsylvania span a wide range of industries and scenarios—from sudden accidents to injuries that build over time. Whether you’re working construction, health care, retail, or logistics, knowing the risks is the first step toward prevention and protection. If you’re injured, acting quickly and understanding your rights can make a major difference in your recovery and your future.
Need Legal Help? Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law is One Phone Call Away
Navigating Pennsylvania workers' compensation claims can be challenging. Fortunately, you don't need to do it alone. The experienced lawyers at Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options, gather necessary evidence, and build a strong case to secure the settlement you deserve.
Contact us now for a free legal review.