Working as a Maryland police officer, paramedic, firefighter, or correctional officer can require individuals to put their safety on the line to protect civilians. These are stressful, demanding jobs that typically involve long hours, emotional distress and exposure to hazardous situations.
Due to the nature of their occupations, public safety workers can suffer severe injuries and illnesses.
Common conditions among public safety workers
Some of the most common conditions that workers in the public safety sector experience include:
- Back injuries
- Muscle sprains and strains
- Heart disease
- Stress
- Hypertension
- Sudden cardiac events
- Cancer
- Infectious diseases
- Physical assaults
- Emotional distress
While there are several measures designed to reduce public safety workers’ exposure to these conditions, accidents still happen. And some chronic conditions develop due to unavoidable aspects of a job, like lifting, twisting or driving.
Getting the benefits you deserve
Maryland laws recognize that these illnesses and injuries are often job-related for those who work in public safety. Thus, workers who experience these conditions and need to take time off work because of them will want to explore their options for workers’ compensation. These benefits cover medical care and partially replace any wages an employee loses due to their condition.
Public safety workers put themselves in situations to protect the rest of us. They enter unsafe buildings, interact with dangerous people and tend to people who need help. As a result, they can and often do suffer health-related consequences. Ensuring that these parties who help others can get the support they deserve is crucial.
Additionally, due to the dangerous nature of these workers’ occupations, there are certain legal advantages the Maryland legislature has provided for public safety employees. If you or your loved one works in public safety and have experienced an accident or illness that prevents you from working, talking to an attorney about your options for workers’ compensation will likely be beneficial.
