Any worker can suffer injuries while working, regardless of safety equipment and safety protocol. If you are a member of the United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers, you might be entitled to additional benefits thanks to collective bargaining done by the union. Workers' compensation covers medical expenses and takes care of a portion of lost wages while you are recovering. Every state sets their own laws, but most workers are eligible to file a claim after a work-related injury. The United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers The United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers is a labor union representing workers in the roofing and waterproofing industries. By 2008, the union that was founded in 1978 had about 22,000 members divided into nine district councils across the country. Two separate predecessor unions were the foundation for the union. The union resulted from the International Slate and Tile Roofers Union of America and the International Brotherhood of Composition Roofers, Damp and Waterproof Workers. Common Workplace Injuries Every job has risks, and those who work in the roofing and waterproofing industries are not exempt. Roofers can fall and suffer serious injuries. A fall from a roof can lead to broken bones, spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and even paralysis. Using roofing tools and equipment can lead to puncture wounds from nail guns. Deep cuts can result from metal roofing or shingles and using saws for wood trim and supports. Waterproofing can also lead to slip and fall accidents. Broken bones and lacerations can be serious and require ongoing medical care. You might find yourself unable to work for quite some time. Injuries can cause thousands of medical expenses rather quickly, so you should make sure you properly file your claim and get your benefits started right away. What To Do If You Have Been Hurt On The Job If you have been hurt on the job, make sure you preserve any evidence and do what you can to protect your rights. Here are some tips regarding what to do after a work-related accident: Notify your work supervisor right away that an accident has occurred and that you have been injured. Any accident and injury should be reported to the powers that be. In some companies, you must talk with human resources. Make sure your employer completes an accident report. This means you should give a detailed description of the event as quickly as possible while the incident is still fresh in your mind. Seek medical care right away. If injuries are serious, call 911 and be transported by an ambulance. Any injuries should be treated, even if they don't seem significant at first. Talk with your United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers representative because union members might get additional benefits or faster claims processing. Talk with an experienced workers' compensation lawyer to ensure your rights are protected. Protect Your Legal Rights As with any insurance claim, you aren't going to be offered full benefits right away. Don't risk throwing away your rights and not getting maximum results. Talk with your United Union of Roofers, Waterproofers and Allied Workers representative and a skilled workers' compensation lawyer. Additional Resources Falls and Workers' Compensation Help! I was Hurt Working for North American Roofing! *Disclaimer: The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against your employer, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
