Blurred Lines - Work Injuries at Home
In recent years, there has been a significant shift in the way we work. With the rise of remote work and the gig economy, more and more people are working from home. While this shift has brought many benefits, such as increased flexibility and reduced commuting time, it has also blurred the lines between work and personal life. One area where this blurring of lines is particularly evident is in the realm of work-related injuries.
When we think of work-related injuries, we often think of accidents that occur in traditional workplaces, such as factories or offices. However, with more people working from home, the concept of a traditional workplace has become less clear-cut. Home offices are often makeshift, with workers setting up shop at kitchen tables or on sofas. This lack of a dedicated workspace can increase the risk of injury, as these spaces are often not ergonomically designed for long periods of work.
One common work-related injury that occurs in home offices is musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). MSDs are injuries or disorders of the muscles, nerves, tendons, joints, cartilage, or spinal discs. They can be caused or exacerbated by factors such as awkward postures, repetitive motions, and forceful exertions – all of which are common in poorly designed home workspaces. Common examples of MSDs include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and back pain.
To prevent MSDs, it is important to set up your home workspace ergonomically. This means ensuring that your chair is at the correct height, your computer screen is at eye level, and your keyboard and mouse are within easy reach. Taking regular breaks and stretching can also help prevent MSDs. Additionally, investing in ergonomic furniture and accessories, such as a supportive chair and a keyboard tray, can make a big difference in reducing the risk of injury.
Another common work-related injury that can occur at home is eye strain. Eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a condition that occurs when your eyes become fatigued from staring at a screen for long periods of time. Symptoms of eye strain include headaches, blurred vision, and dry eyes. To prevent eye strain, it is important to take regular breaks from your screen and to position your monitor at the correct angle and distance from your eyes.
In addition to physical injuries, working from home can also take a toll on mental health. The blurring of lines between work and personal life can lead to increased stress and burnout. Without the physical separation of a traditional workplace, it can be difficult to switch off from work and relax. This can lead to feelings of being constantly "on," which can be detrimental to mental health.
To combat the negative effects of remote work on mental health, it is important to establish boundaries between work and personal life. This can include setting specific work hours and sticking to them, creating a designated workspace that is separate from your living space, and taking regular breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge. It is also important to stay connected with colleagues and friends, even if it is through virtual means, to combat feelings of isolation.
Remote work offers many benefits, such as increased flexibility and reduced commuting time, it also comes with its own set of challenges. The blurring of lines between work and personal life can lead to an increased risk of work-related injuries, both physical and mental. To mitigate these risks, it is important to set up your home workspace ergonomically, take regular breaks, and establish boundaries between work and personal life. By doing so, you can enjoy the benefits of remote work while staying safe and healthy.
If you are injured while working at home, it’s important to consult with a work comp attorney to navigate how best to report and manage the work-from-home work-related injury.
