Citation

Baka AD, Uzunoglu NK. IEEE Technol. Soc. Mag. 2016; 35(1): 69-74.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2016, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)

DOI

10.1109/MTS.2015.2494400

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Occupational accidents still occur, despite technical developments in the occupational safety field at large. The experience of being harmed at work can be devastating, with profound consequences for employees, their families, friends, and work colleagues. Many consequences cannot be measured directly, such as pain suffered. However, the economic burden can be estimated [1]-[4]. Wages lost depends on the duration of illness and the worker's disability rate. The more that work disability reduces an affected worker's actual income, and that income diverges from projected earnings trajectory prior to the injury, the larger the economic consequences. A significant impact on workers' productivity also increases the risk of dismissal. A permanently incapacitated worker is no longer able to contribute to the community and has to be supported by the society in many cases. Occupational accidents worsen previously existing health problems. Some injuries cause permanent chronic pain, which means the worker will need pain management and counseling services. Even after physical recovery, the consequences of a workplace accident may not cease. Employees may show higher rates of psychological problems, drug abuse, sleep disorders, changes in food consumption and body weight, and marital difficulties. Some of these workers need psychiatric assistance to overcome their problems. They may become isolated, estranged from their community, and depressed. Isolation and estrangement can become permanent. Often injured workers feel they are not supported by their friends and family or by the company, the local authorities, and social services. Better support results in better rehabilitation outcomes and an easier return to work and community life.

Language: en