Working women in New Jersey may have a higher chance of sustaining an injury on the job if they suffer from anxiety, fatigue or depression. This is according to a study conducted by researchers at the Colorado School of Public Health’s Center for Health. The study also found that while men had an increased risk of being injured at work, only the women’s risk of workplace injury was impacted by mental health factors.
According to the study’s lead author, the results of the study prove that ensuring the safety of workers requires measures that go beyond the standard safety program. An approach that incorporates safety, health and well-being is needed.
The claims data from the largest workers compensation insurer in the state of Colorado was examined for the study. The data pertained to 314 business from different industries and nearly 17,000 employees of all levels. Nearly 60 percent of women who had a work injury reported enduring a behavioral health issue before incurring the injury. In comparison, only 33 percent of men reported the same.
The reason why women reported behavioral health conditions more than the men may be related to multiple cultural and social factors. Men tend to not confess experiencing health issues. Additional research is necessary to fully comprehend why the risk for workplace injuries is different for women and men. Workers who had sustained a past injury had a greater chance of being injured again, no matter their sex.
An attorney who practices personal injury law may be able to assist clients who were injured while performing work-related tasks. Financial compensation to which they may be entitled could include workers’ compensation. The attorney may assist with submitting an initial claim for the benefits or guide client through the process of appealing the claim if it has been denied.