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Even plumbers working on new construction are exposed to the same level of risk as those who work in the construction industry.  The primary risks for fatalities in construction accidents stem from electrocution, falls, being struck by an object and becoming trapped in tight spaces.  In fact, these dangers inherent to plumbing are responsible for 60% of all deaths in the construction industry.

If you are injured while working as a plumber or know anyone who has endured an injury or passed away while working in this industry, you should know compensation is available.  However, you will not receive any workers’ compensation benefits unless you reach out to our legal team as soon as possible after your injury.  Meet with us for a no-cost review of your case and we will detail your rights and options in accordance with the letter of the law.  Schibell Law, LLC’s workers compensation team, led by Richard Schibell, will fiercely advocate on your behalf until justice is served.

Plumbing Injuries

Though not all plumbers work in the construction field, the chance of an injury for those who make a living performing plumbing work is similar to the chance of injury faced by construction workers.  According to the Center For Construction Research And Training (CCRT), the top causes of plumber injury and death across a period of 15 years stemming from the late 90s to the mid aughts are as follows:

• More than 17,000 deaths resulting from over-exertion when lifting
• Nearly 8,000 deaths resulting from crawling, climbing, twisting and bending
• More than 6,400 deaths resulting from being struck by a falling object
• More than 1,600 deaths resulting from falls

Though few would guess it, eye injuries are quite common for plumbers.  CCRT reports those working in the plumbing, steam fitting and pipe fitting trades experience more ocular injuries than workers in any other field.  The high prevalence of eye injuries among plumbers is attributable to the fact that plumbers typically weld/solder pipes in small spaces as well as overhead.  This dangerous work has the potential to cause foreign objects to contact the eyes, burn the hands and singe other portions of the upper-body. 

Orthopedic Injuries Resulting From Plumbing Work

Plumbers face an extraordinarily high risk for orthopedic and musculoskeletal disorders resulting from work-related activities.  Such injuries prove quite painful as they compromise the nerves, joints, muscles and tendons.  Damage to these parts of the body are especially common for plumbers simply because they perform repetitive activities in cramped spaces on a daily basis.  Making matters worse is the fact that a considerable amount of force is required to perform plumbing activities the right way.  According to a study conducted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, four out of every ten work-related orthopedic or musculoskeletal disorders caused the injured plumber to miss one or several days of work.  

Examples of common work-related orthopedic or musculoskeletal disorders for those working in the plumbing industry include back and neck strains, inflamed joints and tendons, herniated discs and carpal tunnel syndrome.  Those who have studied such injuries have determined they account for all but 3% of all disabling injuries for plumbers and pipe fitters.  It is particularly interesting to note more than 50% of such injuries resulted from overexertion. 

Were You Injured While Working as a Plumber?  Contact Schibell Law, LLC

It is clear plumbing industry employees are subjected to all sorts of work-related injuries that have the potential to lead to lifelong medical problems.  If you work as a plumber, pipe fitter or in any other capacity in the plumbing industry and endure an injury related to your workplace activities, do not be afraid to ask for assistance from a legal practitioner.  The workers’ compensation attorneys at Schibell Law, LLC are here to provide you with the advice necessary to protect your legal rights to the fullest extent of the law and determine if you have solid legal footing to file a workers’ compensation claim or pursue a work injury lawsuit.  Even if you are only slightly injured, there is the potential for worsened pain and medical costs to plague you for years if not the rest of your life.  Reach out to us today at 732-774-1000 to discuss your unique case and explore your legal options.

Richard N. Schibell, Esq.

is the founding partner at Schibell Law LLC concentrating in all aspects of Workers’ Compensation throughout New Jersey. Mr. Richard N Schibell graduated from Boston College with a Bachelor of Arts, concentrating in both Philosophy and History. He went on to receive his Juris Doctorate degree from Seton Hall University School of Law.

Following his graduation from law school, Mr. Schibell served as a Judicial Law Clerk to the Honorable Richard W. English, J.S.C., in the Civil Division of the Monmouth County Superior Court.