Georgia Workers’ Compensation Claims for Plumbers and HVAC Engineers

My experience has been that plumbers and HVAC installers/engineers often experience injuries associated with lifting and with twisting their bodies in awkward positions while on the job.  Usually these injuries are to the back, but my clients also report wrist (carpal tunnel) injuries as well as neck injuries.  I see chemical and steam burn injuries as well, although the incidence of burn injuries has decreased a little over the years - perhaps due to better safety equipment.

When working on an HVAC system or when working as a plumber, you are often called upon to work in confined spaces around installed equipment or machinery and you frequently have to twist and torque your body for extended periods of time when reaching for a valve or piece of equipment.

Further, both HVAC equipment and plumbing supplies can be both heavy and awkward, and you can easily strain your lower back while moving supplies.  In addition, there is a good chance that will be working on wet floors, which increases the possibility of slipping.

If you are injured on the job, you should report your injury immediately to your supervisor.  This is especially important if you have been working on your own, which is not uncommon for plumbers and HVAC technicians.

In my experience, plumbers and HVAC workers sometimes “moonlight” at night and on weekends, and they also like to work around the house.  Some employers will try to gather evidence of “off the clock” work to argue that your injury really happened elsewhere.

Your part time work does not disqualify you from collecting workers’ compensation benefits if you were injured on your main job.  However, you have to be very careful about discussing any free lance work with your employer or an insurance adjuster.  Everything else being equal, I would strongly suggest that you call me before discussing your non-work activities with a company workers’ comp. rep.  My number is 770-351-0801 and I am happy to talk to you without cost or obligation.

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