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Retired NHL players speak with congress about concussions

| Sep 21, 2016 | Employee Rights |

Regardless of your line of work, there is always the potential of a workplace accident or illness. Overworked white collar employees experiencing excessive stress or mental abuse may experience anxiety attacks or depression, while blue collar workers doing physical labor may suffer all of the above as well as serious physical dangers in the workplace. The dangers of working in the sports arena have recently come under a national spotlight, as professional hockey players suffering from head injuries speak out about their injuries post-retirement.

Recently, former National Hockey League players spoke with President Obama administration officials and members of congress to shed some light on the issues they are experiencing due to multiple concussions they suffered during their time at work. One issue that may be overlooked is the potential for long-term effects that may not be immediately apparent at the time of a head injury.

Construction workers, in particular ,are vulnerable to head-related injuries, and a series of concussions during a worker’s career could lead to additional illnesses down the line. This includes chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a degenerative disease similar in many ways to Alzheimer’s disease.

Their concerns are applicable to any type of worker who works in potentially hazardous working conditions. Employers are required by law to make reasonable accommodations and proactively make every effort to make certain that workers are safe from harm. Of course, one cannot predict accidents but the potential for accidents can be diminished if employers take proper safety precautions.

If you are injured in the workplace, you should seek treatment, make certain to report your injury and keep a record that may be needed later. In addition, if you notice an unsafe working condition, you should speak with your employer immediately to address the situation. If the conditions remain unresolved, you have employee rights protecting you against whistleblower retaliation if you report your employer for failing to resolve the issue. In these matters, it is important to understand your rights and ptios to protect your rights and interests.

Source: Huffington Post, “Former NHL Players Want You To Pay Attention To Hockey Concussions, Too,” by Travis Waldron, Accessed on Sept. 20, 2016