Many people think that plumbers have a rather safe job, but there are many hazards that come with this occupation. The physical strain on a plumber’s body can be immense, especially when they have to get into small spaces to do their job.
Repetitive strain injuries are common among plumbers – but that’s only the start of the troubles they encounter. These are some of the more common risks plumbers face:
Injuries from tools
Plumbers know that hand and power tools can be dangerous to work with. Most know how to use them in a safe manner. However, there are still incidents that can lead to injuries. Tools that are worn or not inspected regularly can unexpectedly cause injury.
Exposure to elements and other hazards
Plumbers are often exposed to the elements, such as rain and wind. As a result, the risk of suffering from an illness is higher than in other professions. In other situations, plumbers could also be exposed to asbestos, a cancer causing substance, and other hazardous substances while working on the job.
Slips, trips and falls
Plumbers don’t always work on ground level and falls are sometimes possible in this profession. Climbing ladders, using scaffolding and getting into holes in the ground to reach the pipes come with risks.
Plumbers who suffer a work-related injury know to get necessary medical care. And workers’ compensation should cover those expenses. If the worker isn’t able to return to work right away, they may be eligible for partial wage replacement and other benefits.