Since the formation of the Glass, Molders, Pottery, Plastics, and Allied Workers International Union (GMPIU), the industry has increasingly been overshadowed by technology. However, craftsmen and women are more important now than they’ve ever been. Between the expertise required and the potential risks of their field, members of the GMPIU are incredibly valuable. If you were recently injured in an accident while working, the GMPIU and workers’ compensation are available to help you. Continue below to learn how to work towards getting compensation for your injury. What Is the GMPIU? It is no surprise that the GMPIU is one of the oldest labor unions in the United States. Since 1842, GMPIU has been fighting for fair working hours, fair wages, and career support for the thousands of workers dealing in glass, pottery, plastic, and other formative trades. It provides benefits and assistance to over 28,000 members in the US and Canada, and continues to take a stand on ethical issues that face trade jobs today. Potential Injuries as a Glassworker The GMPIU is also useful when it comes to accidents in the workplace. As a member of the union, it is no secret the many ways that workers are exposed to potential dangers every day. Luckily, GMPIU can help you sort out the details of your accident and help determine how to get benefits for your injury. The most common injuries faced by most union members include: burns from hot equipment and materials, such as molten glass cuts from knives, machines, or other sharp tools bruises or other internal damage from hard hits caused by falling products or blunt machines slips and falls in fast-paced working environments Here's a little more information on what you should do if you were burned at work. After an injury like this, it is important to place your health first and foremost. Be sure to get an official assessment by a doctor so you can be certain of the severity of your condition. After you are on the road to recovery, you can begin working on your workers’ compensation claim. Preparing Your Workers' Compensation Claim When filing a workers’ compensation claim, your employer will want to know the details of your accident, the cause of the injury, and the reason you are seeking a specific amount in compensation. If these elements are not included, then it is possible you could be denied compensation for a qualifying case. Start by speaking with a representative from the GMPIU. Your rep will help you to understand the relationship between the union and an employer, and explain how to start the workers’ comp process based on this information. Next, write down everything you know about the accident. Explain the job you were doing, the events leading up to the incident, the incident itself, and what happened/how it was handled afterward. Be as detailed as you can to be sure your employer understands everything you know. Finally, gather evidence to support your claim. Concrete evidence like pictures of the scene, your injuries, or faulty equipment can make a huge difference here. You can also gather witness statements from coworkers who witnessed the incident. Don’t forget to include your medical bills and test results as well, to demonstrate why you require compensation. Should You Work With a Workers’ Compensation Attorney? The GMPIU will of course be of help to you during your workers’ comp claim. However, GMPIU's assistance is no match for official legal help, which may be necessary to get you the compensation you deserve. Workers’ comp attorneys can help you to organize your claim, communicate with your union and employer, and continually support you in the process should you have difficulty getting help. Even if you’re unsure, contact a workers’ comp attorney in your area for a free consultation to see if legal help may be of use to you. You can speak with a workers' compensation attorney in your area by filling out our Free Case Evaluation.
