It is common to hear about concussions in the media nowadays, especially considering that they are a common risk in many sports. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines concussions as a type of traumatic brain injury, usually classified as mild.
This definition might lead many people to think that concussions do not pose a large risk, but that is not true. Workers who suffer concussions on the job should not overlook the risk.
Concussions are a common risk for many workers
As we have discussed in previous blog posts, falls on the same level or from a height are some of the most common injury risks that workers in many industries face. And even though there is personal protective equipment (PPE) that workers can wear to prevent these falls, the risk of both falls and injuries seems to be increasing.
Concussions are a common injury resulting from falls. They can seriously affect a worker’s:
- Balance
- Memory
- Vision
- Ability to focus
In turn, a concussion can also significantly impact one’s ability to work. Even though most concussions take roughly two weeks to heal, it is critical that workers take time to rest.
Rest is critical after a concussion
Since many workers might think that concussions are a mild injury, they might continue to work. This is especially common if they do not experience extreme symptoms – such as sensitivity to light or severe headaches.
However, it is important that workers take the time they need to recover after a concussion. These injuries are usually compensable under Maryland’s workers’ compensation law, which can cover medical bills and the time workers are out of work recovering.
It is essential to rest for several reasons:
- Symptoms might arise later and put workers at risk while on the job
- Continuing to work and exert oneself could worsen the concussion
- Workers could suffer further physical injuries if they lose consciousness at work
Concussions may not be visible injuries, but they are just as serious as any other. They may be defined as mild, but they are still a significant injury that workers must not overlook.
