If you work in a supermarket, you may appreciate the flexible scheduling and the opportunity to learn new skills. There are great opportunities available for growth. Yet, you should think about the amount that you get paid. If you were hurt on the job, could you pay your monthly bills? Would you be able to afford to pay for the medical care that you need? Getting hurt on the job when you work in a supermarket can be financially devastating. The Basics of Workers’ Compensation If you’re hurt on the job, you have the option to file a workers’ compensation claim through your employer. Every state has a law that says most employers must carry a workers’ compensation policy. This helps to protect workers who are hurt. While there is no charge to employees, you cannot get benefits if you do not file a claim. Workers’ compensation provides several benefits. The benefits you’ll qualify to receive will depend on your injury. You may get help with medical expenses, partial payment of your lost wages, and if you cannot return to your career, you may be eligible to receive job training. To file a claim, speak with your manager, supervisor, or Human Resources representative. When you file your workers’ compensation policy, you should ask for a list of doctors who can treat you for free. Company Profile: Giant Food Stores, LLC Giant Food Stores, LLC is a chain of grocery stores in Pennsylvania. Their headquarters is located in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Giant Food Stores is owned by Royal Ahold, but operated by Giant-Carlisle. They have around 210 employees. Risks of Working in a Grocery Store Giant Food Stores provides many opportunities for work. You may work in the deli or at the meat counter, in the bakery, or you may be a cashier or a stocker. Your risk of getting hurt on the job is directly related to your assigned job duties. Here are some of the common risk factors: Deli and meat counter workers: Working in the deli or meat counter means that you work around sharp knives and saws. You may cut meat and spend a lot of time on your feet. Even non-slip shoes can fail on wet or slick surfaces. A slip and fall can cause a severe head injury. Cutting meats and cheeses for customers can lead to severe cuts. You could suffer severe lacerations from any of the sharp tools used. Bakery workers: Working in the bakery is rewarding for many people. Yet, it is full of risks. Floors that are slick from flour or egg can cause you to slip and fall and severely injure your back. You could suffer from a severe burn because of the oven. Cashiers and stockers: Performing the same motions every day can cause you to develop repetitive stress injury. Standing on your feet or stooping can also cause injury to your ankles, knees, and hips. If you are a stocker, you could fall from a ladder while putting away goods or you could be exposed to chemicals if cleaning supplies are leaking. Learn More About Workers’ Compensation Getting hurt on the job can be terrifying. If you were hurt on the job at Giant Food, you may have questions about workers’ compensation. To learn more about workers’ compensation, you should contact a workers’ compensation attorney. *The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against Royal Ahold or its subsidiaries, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
