Career opportunities change as technology advances. Some jobs become obsolete because technology replaces the need for human labor. Many of the physical tasks once performed by hand in industrial and medical settings are now under the control of specialized equipment. Technological advances can also theoretically help improve worker safety. Not only can equipment take over dangerous and repetitive job tasks, but it can also help limit the situations in which workers are at risk of serious injury. If professionals get hurt on the job, they may have the option of seeking workers’ compensation benefits to cover their medical expenses and replace their wages until they return to work.
Does modern safety technology have any impact on a worker’s right to benefits after an on-the-job injury?
Technology could reduce injury rates
Several exciting advances in technology paved the way for overall safer work environments for professionals and many demanding sectors. For example, employers can use video monitoring to ensure the safety of a solitary worker. They can use vital signs monitoring to identify emergencies in progress. In theory, the use of that technology could help prevent worker injuries and improve training practices. Companies that adopt cutting-edge safety technology may be able to reduce the number of worker injuries that occur.
Technology doesn’t limit worker rights
Some professionals might worry that safety technology could prevent them from successfully applying for workers’ compensation benefits. For example, cameras in a production facility might show that a worker tripped because they didn’t pay attention and got hurt due to their own mistake. Employees do not need to worry about the loss of benefit eligibility because of modern technology. Workers’ compensation provides no-fault coverage. Even when an employee is at fault, they are still eligible for the same basic benefits. If anything, the video footage or other information gathered by safety technology could help prove that a medical condition relates to employment.
Professionals working in high-risk environments may want to learn about common job hazards and the technological systems their employers have adopted to protect them from injury. Regardless of what systems the company has in place, injured employees hurt at work may be able to apply for workers’ compensation benefits.
Learning about the rules that apply to workers’ compensation claims can help employees feel more confident about seeking support after an injury. Those concerned about complicated claims or controversy might benefit from securing the help of a workers’ compensation attorney as they apply for benefits or communicate with their employers.