Caring for others is a worthwhile and rewarding career, but it's not without its risks. Whether you are working as a nanny and caring for Denver children, or you have been hired by a family to care for an elderly relative, you are responsible for keeping them safe but you also need to prioritize your own well-being. Recognizing the common risks of this career and working to minimize your chances of suffering from an injury are important, but it's also critical that you know what you need to do in the event of a work-related injury.
Common injuries among child care workers and domestic help
Nannies, caretakers and domestic help are most at risk for the following injuries:
- Back and hip injuries — Nannies, in particular, are required to do a lot of heavy lifting. When caring for young children, they often have to be carried up and down the stairs, around the home as well as in and out of the car. If the baby is heavy or the child is moving while being carried, the nanny can easily suffer from back or hip injuries. These injuries can range from minor to severe, and can often result in lasting complications for the individual.
- Slip and fall injuries — While working throughout the house and taking care of any necessary errands, a caretaker or domestic worker can easily slip and fall within the home. Slip and fall injuries are quite common, and while they may seem like an insignificant accident they can actually leave a lasting impact. A slip and fall accident can lead to sprains, strains and even broken bones.
- Injuries the result from motor vehicle accidents — Some nannies or caretakers are required to use a vehicle in order to run errands for their employer. While operating the vehicle, the domestic worker is at risk of getting into a car accident in which they can suffer serious injuries.
Preventing injury when you work as a caretaker
Caretakers as well as their employers must work to prevent injury or accidents whenever possible. The employer should make sure that their house is clean and free of debris prior to the arrival of their domestic worker. They also should provide the worker with anything they might need to stay comfortable or safe while working in the home.
The domestic care employee should use safety techniques and preventative measures to stay safe. For instance, a nanny should properly lift a child in order to avoid back injuries, and a domestic caretaker should use any equipment necessary to provide adequate and safe care within the home.
Can nannies and domestic help file for worker's compensation?
In the event of an injury that occurs within the home while working, nannies as well as domestic workers may be able to file for worker's compensation. Generally, they are eligible for worker's compensation as long as their employer has taken out a worker's compensation policy from their insurance agent. If an injury occurs, the domestic worker should seek medical attention immediately as well as inform their employer as soon as possible. After the injury has been treated and properly reported, an insurance agent will reach out to the domestic worker in order to provide them with further information about their worker's compensation benefits.
What to do in the event of an injury while working as a nanny or a caretaker
If an injury occurs in the home and the employer does not offer worker's compensation, the nanny or domestic worker may be able to take legal action. In this case, it is critical to contact an attorney who specializes in worker's compensation and personal injury law. The attorney can provide guidance about possible legal options.
If you work as a nanny in the Denver area or you have been hired by a Colorado family to be a caretaker, it's important that you know what needs to be done in the event of an injury. If you need assistance or you want more information about personal injury law and worker's compensation in Colorado, then it's time to set up an appointment with an experienced attorney.
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