In the realm of workers’ compensation, addressing claims related to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) presents a distinctive challenge. Over the recent decades, there has been a substantial surge in the number of employees seeking workers’ comp claims for CTS. This surge is primarily attributed to the emerging connection between CTS and work-related practices. However, the consensus among many physicians and experts is that work-related factors seldom stand as the sole cause of CTS, which sparks inquiries about the extent of liability employers should shoulder for such claims.
For an injured employee to make a successful claim, the injury must be directly connected to their work. When it comes to injuries resulting from a single event, establishing causality in work is relatively straightforward. However, injuries that gradually manifest over time due to work-related exposure pose a more intricate challenge. Research increasingly indicates that only a limited set of work-related factors can genuinely be deemed as the solitary cause of CTS. In most instances, the development of CTS is primarily attributed to external factors. Unfortunately for employers, many employees harbor preexisting conditions that only become evident when aggravated by their working conditions. In such cases, employers find it arduous to attribute external factors as potential causes, often ending up bearing the financial burden for the consequences of conditions for which they hold limited responsibility.
While some states are presently reassessing how workers’ compensation coverage addresses CTS claims, it remains the responsibility of employers to adopt proactive measures to safeguard themselves. While genetics and other personal factors may influence CTS, controlling or mitigating workplace conditions that can exacerbate these preexisting conditions becomes crucial to curbing workers’ comp expenses.
Initiate your efforts by delving into previous claims linked to CTS. Through these records, you can pinpoint the areas within your operations that witness a notable frequency of CTS-related incidents. Scrutinize working conditions and protocols in these areas, comparing them against recommended ergonomic standards. Armed with this information, create training programs aimed at educating employees about appropriate ergonomic practices tailored to their specific roles.
Once you’ve instituted a comprehensive CTS prevention program, it becomes imperative to continuously monitor the outcomes. If a substantial reduction in claim numbers isn't apparent, it might be necessary to reevaluate certain facets of your prevention strategy.
Occasionally, injuries transpire irrespective of the safeguards or safety initiatives you’ve implemented. For such instances, having an effective policy in place that addresses workplace injuries is vital.
From prompt incident reporting to a proficient return-to-work program, TPG Insurance Services stands ready to help you construct a strong injury response system! Call 909.466.7876 today to learn more!
Also, learn more about Workers Compensation: Return & Accommodations