Heavy construction work, HVAC, automotive trades including mechanic, Pipes, cylinders, and more. There's no a shortage of work for a qualified welder. Welding is one of the most sought after trades because of its good pay and relatively stable job options.

Yet, despite the good pay and job security, what would you do if you were hurt on the job or made sick from your job environment? Have you saved any money for hard times? Many people don't simply because of the high cost of living. Could you provide for yourself and your family? It's a terrifying scenario that people in Connecticut  face every day when they are hurt on the job.

Fortunately, Connecticut law requires employers to provide workers' compensation insurance at no cost to employees. If you are hurt or made sick on the job, you can get help with your medical expenses.

The good news is that there is a law in each state that requires more employers to provide workers' compensation insurance at no cost to employees. If you are hurt or made sick on the job, you can get help with your medical expenses.

Workers' comp helps welders just like you who are injured on the job. If you get hurt or if you get sick, the most critical step is to file a claim for workers compensation benefits. This will provide money to pay your medical expenses.

Let's face it, we all know that doctors' visits, medications, and medical procedures are extremely costly. Workers' comp helps with that by providing coverage for 100% of your reasonable job injury related medical treatment . It also helps you by paying out some of your lost wages while you are recovering.  If you are totally disabled, Connecticut workers compensation benefits will pay you approximately 70% of your average weekly wage.  These payments will be completely tax free to you!  In the event you are so injured you are no longer able to return to work as a welder, the Connecticut Division of Workers Rehabilitation can provide you training for a new career!

Risks Faced By Welders

Think about all of the equipment that you use on the job as a welder. The most common injuries experienced by welders are burns. Burns may seem like a minor inconvenience, but they can be severe. Even a minor burn can get worse if you don't get appropriate medical treatment to prevent infection.

Welder's flash is another feared injury. Can you risk losing your eye sight in any capacity? It would certainly put your livelihood at risk.

Being exposed to the chemicals released when you're welding can make you very, very sick. You could be diagnosed with nerve damage, lung problems, or even what is commonly known as Welders' Parkinson's disease.

Hurt or Sick Because of Your Job as a Welder?

If you're hurt or sick because of your job as a welder, you may not know what to do. Regardless of whether you feel like you could have prevented your injury, you are entitled to compensation. Follow these four steps to protect your legal rights:

• Let your supervisor know immediately about your injury. Don't wait. This is important for two reasons:
  • First, if it is caused by something that could injure another welder, such as faulty welding equipment, reporting the incident to your supervisor protects others.
  • Second, it protects your legal rights. This is a very important step in getting workers' comp.
• Fill out an accident report as soon as possible. Because you need to be as accurate as possible, you should complete it immediately. If you are burned or if you have an eye injury, call 911. 
• Get medical attention as soon as you can. You have the right to get emergency medical help if you need it. If you have a minor injury, you can see the doctor or walk in center that your employer directs you to. l not pay anything for that visit. You do have the right to see your own doctor, however you may require the services of a Connecticut work injury lawyer
• Consult competent legal advice.. It is important to have someone looking out for your best interest. Even the most supportive employer will look to settle the claim for as little as possible to stop their insurance premiums from going up. Never talk to an insurance adjuster on your own. Settling without an attorney could rob you of important legal rights and on getting the compensation that you deserve.

For additional information on timely Connecticut work injury topics, feel free to check out our YouTube Channel or give us call.  I'm happy to answer your questions.