Workers’ compensation benefits are available in Connecticut for those who are injured on the job. This applies to any kind of a job a person might have and is not limited to so-called “dangerous” jobs like those held by first responders, law enforcement, construction workers and anyone else in a physical and risky occupation. While many injuries occur in jobs that do not seem to be particularly risky, it is true that those who are in the more physically and emotionally arduous types of employment will be injured more frequently than someone who works in an office. For people who work in riskier jobs, it is imperative to remember the availability of workers’ compensation benefits and how to get them.
One specific job that is drawing attention for the number of workers who are injured and getting workers’ compensation benefits is juvenile detention officers. According to the latest statistics, 40 percent of those working at the juvenile detention center in Bridgeport have suffered injuries and were getting workers’ compensation benefits. This is believed to be because of a lack of staffing and workers needing to do double shifts several times per week. Also, the offenders who are sparking confrontations are older and have a higher level of aggressiveness.
Twenty-two of the 55 workers who are at the location were getting workers’ compensation benefits. The range of injuries are to the back, ribs, shoulder damage, wrist injuries, ankle injuries and concussions. 95 percent stem from confrontations with juveniles who are said to be aware of the overwork and take advantage of it. Officers lament the reduction in staffing from budget cuts and the failure to replace those who retired, were laid off or were injured and are out. New recruits are being hired, but the concerns are affecting morale and impacting how the workers do their jobs.
While many might not have a job with the potential risks and troubling circumstances that juvenile corrections officers do, there are parallels with other jobs with staff cuts, excessive hours and a workplace with a high chance of injury that could be similar. After work injuries, it is important to determine whether workers’ compensation benefits are available. When it comes to filling out the forms, providing proof and taking all the necessary steps to get workers’ compensation benefits, it may be helpful to seek professional guidance, no matter what kind of job a person does.
