Bartenders and nightclub workers in Denver may suffer from a variety of injuries, ranging from mild to severe, while on the job. Unfortunately, the reality is that many of them do not have access to employer-provided insurance, according to the Washington Post. It's imperative that bartenders and nightclub workers recognize the risks of the job before accepting a new position, and that they know what recourse is available should they be injured while working.
Common injuries to bartenders and nightclub workers
On the surface, bartending or working at a nightclub might not seem like a physical job. It may not require an individual to operate heavy equipment or to do excessive physical tasks, but these employees are required to handle large amounts of people who are often under the influence of alcohol. This, in and of itself, is risky. Some of the most common injuries to bartenders and nightclub workers include:
- Slip and fall injuries — The floors and surfaces of these facilities are nearly always wet due to spilled drinks and other mishaps. It can be difficult for maintenance to keep the floors clean and dry, so workers are particularly prone to falling and injuring themselves.
- Carpal tunnel injuries — Working taps and pouring drinks can be tiring on the body, and can result in the onset of carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Back, neck and shoulder injuries — Lifting and carrying drinks around dark and crowded spaces can take its toll physically. Bartenders and night club workers often suffer from muscle and bone injuries as a result of prolonged work.
- Cuts and abrasions — Customers at bars are frequently dropping glasses and it's easy for a bartender to inadvertently break a glass bottle that is being used to pour a drink. This can easily lead to cuts and abrasions that can range from minor to severe.
Bartenders and nightclub workers who are injured on the job should seek medical care immediately, and also should report the incident to their immediate supervisor as soon as possible.
Safety tips and advice for those who work at bars and nightclubs
Both the employer as well as the employee are responsible for safety while on the job. First and foremost, those who own, operate or manage bars and nightclubs should provide their employees with safety training as well as the proper equipment to stay safe while working. Training programs should address common risks of working in a nightclub or bar environment, and should provide employees with the resources necessary to deal with emergency situations.
Employers must take all safety training seriously, and employ those tactics while they are working. They also should take care to remain alert and aware of their surroundings, while monitoring for signs of individuals who have over-indulged while enjoying a night out.
What to do if you are a bartender or nightclub worker injured on the job
A bartender or nightclub worker who is injured while working may be eligible for worker's compensation. Worker's compensation can and should cover all medical expenses, any wages that are lost from missed work due to the injury, and any impact that takes place to the individual's quality of life. For assistance in filing for worker's compensation, bartenders and nightclub workers in Denver can work with a qualified worker's compensation attorney.
Bartenders and nightclub workers should take the proper precautions to stay safe while on the job, but they also should have an advocate available to help them should they be injured on the job. If you or someone you love has been injured while working at a bar in Denver, then it's important to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Call our office today to learn more and to set up a consultation appointment.
No Comments
Leave a comment