Manual labor asks a lot of its workers. Laborers who are members of unions like the United Association (UA) are often strong, dedicated craftsmen and women who are masters of their industry. However, no matter the skill level, workers in these physical jobs always run the low risk of injury. Fortunately, when injury does occur, there is support available. If you were recently hurt while working as part of UA, you may be able to get compensation for your injury. Continue below to learn more about UA and what resources you can use to file for workers’ compensation from your employer. United Association Officially the “United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing, Pipefitting and Sprinkler Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada," UA is one of the oldest international unions in North America. It began in the 1880s as a coalition of plumbers, steamfitters, and gasfitters in search of better benefits from employers who abused their time and talents. Today, UA is comprised of almost 330,000 members from a variety of manual labor jobs. While the majority remain in the plumbing and pipefitting industries, many others also work in various other building and metal trades. Potential Injuries Each member of UA deals with a variety of potentially dangerous obstacles each day. Builders must measure, fit, and hoist heavy materials safely. Pipefitters must carefully measure and cut materials while occasionally navigating tight spaces or hazardous locations to lay pipe. Metalworkers must maneuver scorching forges, heavy machinery, and a variety of dangerous materials in their work. Regardless of the job, UA members are always at risk for a potential accident that leaves them cut, bruised, burned, with broken bones, or with various other internal/external injuries. It is also important to remember that long-term injuries may also qualify for compensation. For instance, a plumber may experience increasingly severe neck, shoulder, and back pain due to their constant bending, twisting, and laying in uncomfortable positions while working. If the condition requires medical treatment that you have covered with your own expenses, then it is worth applying for compensation. Important Steps After Your Work Injury Get whatever medical treatment you need. Nothing is unnecessary when it comes to taking care of your health. Simply get copies of all tests, doctors’ notes, and medical bills to provide on your workers’ comp claim. Write down everything you know. What do you remember from the time leading up to the accident? What occurred during the main event? Where did it happen? What was the response afterward? These are all important questions that should be answered as thoroughly as possible — this will help your employer understand what occurred. Gather supporting evidence. A common way to supplement your personal account is to provide pictures. Take pictures of the scene of the accident (over time, if applicable — before and after shots are especially useful) as well as pictures of your injury(s). You can also get testimonies from any coworkers or customers that were present when the accident occurred. After compiling all of these pieces of information, inform your employer that you will be filing a claim for your injury. You should also speak with a UA representative to learn what protocol is necessary for a workers’ comp claim with your union. Workers’ Compensation Attorneys Workers’ compensation attorneys give you the best chance possible of receiving the benefits you deserve. They can write your workers’ compensation demand letter, organize your case, negotiate with your employer, communicate with UA on your behalf, and work until they win you your case. Consider a free consultation with an attorney in your area to see if they may be a good fit for you and your case. Additional Resources Workers’ Compensation for Sewer and Water Pipelayers Worker's Comp and Sheet Metal Mechanics Disclaimer: The content of this article is purely informative and should not be construed as official legal advice. If you file a claim against your employer or another party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.*
