Top Hazards for Fast Food Workers in Chicago

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an alarming number of teens suffer serious injuries while working in fast food restaurants every year. Veterans of this industry understand these threats only too well, but many fast food workers are relatively young and inexperienced. What are some of the most prevalent safety hazards in the fast food industry, and how can a Chicago workers’ compensation lawyer help after an accident?

Thermal Burns 

A thermal burn is a common type of injury in the fast food industry. In this type of workplace, employees might work in close proximity to grills, ovens, deep fryers, and other sources of fire and heat. A moment of distraction can lead to serious, life-altering burns. Some of these burns can be disfiguring in nature, especially facial burns. Sometimes, workers suffer burns through no fault of their own. For example, a deep fryer might malfunction – or another worker might mistakenly spill hot oil onto someone.

 Workplace Violence 

Workplace violence is relatively common in Chicago fast food restaurants. Many of these establishments are open 24/7, and they may attract violent individuals late at night. Despite training and other safety policies, employees could be harmed by these unsavory characters. It is also not uncommon for co-workers to become violent with each other in the fast-food industry. These incidents can lead to valid workers’ comp claims.

 Slips, Trips, and Falls 

Slips, trips, and falls also represent serious hazards in the Chicago fast food industry. Even a small spill can cause a worker to fall. These accidents can lead to fractured bones, sprains, and traumatic brain injuries. Aside from liquid spills, food debris can also cause people to slip and fall.

 Repetitive Strain Injuries 

Many fast food workers perform the same basic tasks every day, and these repetitive motions can become highly stressful for the joints and ligaments. Issues like tennis elbow, torn rotator cuffs, and carpal-tunnel syndrome are all relatively common among fast food workers. It is important to report these injuries as soon as you become aware of them. Next, seek treatment and consider filing a workers’ comp claim.

 Cuts and Lacerations 

Finally, cuts and lacerations can severely injure fast food workers in Chicago. Many of these workers must cut and slice food throughout the day, often at a rushed pace. It is all too easy to make a mistake, and one simple error could have devastating consequences. Fast food workers have lost fingers due to cutting mistakes in the past, and these issues could lead to workers’ compensation claims. Consider discussing a potential claim with Connolly Injury Law.

 Sources: 

bls.gov/opub/ted/2019/injury-and-illness-rates-higher-in-special-food-services-than-in-broader-food-services-industry.htm

archive.cdc.gov/www_cdc_gov/niosh/updates/teenfast.html