Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim for a Needle-Stick Injury as a Sanitation Worker in Chicago

On August 24th, 2026, sanitation workers in Chicago reported that they were experiencing an increase in needle stick injuries. These injuries can be incredibly dangerous, potentially leaving innocent workers with permanent health issues. What can you do if you were injured by a needle at work? Can a Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer help?

Spike in Needle Stick Injuries Attributed to Weight Loss Injections

Officials representing sanitation workers in Chicago say that the notable spike in needle stick injuries may be due to weight loss injections. This medication is skyrocketing in popularity, but it seems as though average people are not bothering to dispose of their used needles safely.

One sanitation worker told reporters that “one of his biggest fears” was reaching for a garbage bag and getting poked by a needle. Unfortunately, people simply don’t care enough about the safety of sanitation workers. A few basic needle disposal steps prevent any chance of injuries, but average workers are paying the price for widespread irresponsibility in this regard.

Common Types of Needle Stick Injuries for Sanitation Workers

The most serious type of needle stick injury is an infection with a bloodborne pathogen. The most severe examples include Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and HIV. One of the most distressing aspects of this injury is the fact that the sanitation worker has no idea of their long-term consequences at first. It is impossible to determine who left the needle in the garbage bag, and it is therefore impossible to know what kinds of bloodborne pathogens might be present.

Hepatitis B is highly resilient, able to survive within a blood-caked needle for up to a week while sitting in a garbage bag. Hepatitis vaccinations may prevent the most serious consequences of this infection, although not all workers take this step.

What if My Claim Is Denied for a Needle Stick Injury?

Insurance companies often deny workers’ comp claims for needle stick injuries. If no one witnessed you prick your finger with a needle in a garbage bag, it may be difficult to prove that this was a work-related injury. However, you should be able to gain access to benefits if you seek medical attention immediately, report the incident to a supervisor, and work with an experienced workers’ comp lawyer.

Some of the most serious issues may develop if the insurer tries to argue that your infection stems from something you were doing outside of work, such as unprotected sex or drug use. If you face these arguments, it may be particularly important to work with an experienced workers’ comp lawyer to gather a “preponderance of evidence” that the injury was indeed work-related.

Can a Chicago Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Help Me?

If you were injured by a needle while carrying out your duties as a sanitation worker, you should immediately see a doctor and undergo all recommended tests. Next, report the incident to your employer and file a workers’ comp claim in Chicago. If you are experiencing any issues with your claim, consider contacting Connolly Injury Law.

Source: 

abc7chicago.com/story/new-york-sanitation-workers-report-increase-needle-stick-injuries-amid-spike-glp-1-use/19728172/