Plumbers and Illinois Workers' Compensation

Plumbing is physically demanding, technical work that puts the body under constant strain. If you’re a plumber (union or non-union)  who has been hurt on the job in Illinois, contact us for free advice and a referral to an attorney who is experienced in getting plumbers the workers compensation benefits they deserve.  We have helped tens of thousands of injured workers and would love to help you. All calls are FREE and confidential and we cover all of Illinois.

The work of a plumber demands awkward postures, repetitive motions, exposure to hazardous materials, and physically difficult conditions, often in tight or poorly ventilated spaces. Some aspects of the job that may lead to injuries include:

Working in cramped spaces. Crawl spaces, basements, and tight utility closets often force plumbers to twist, kneel, or bend into unnatural positions for long periods, putting stress on the back, knees, and neck.  We also see a lot of plumbers who hit their heads.

Lifting and carrying heavy materials. Pipes, water heaters, fixtures, and tools are heavy and awkward to maneuver, especially in small areas where you can’t lift using the proper form.

Reaching up while working. This is known to cause both shoulder and neck injuries.

Working at awkward angles. This puts your body into weird positions and can lead to a breakdown over time of many body parts.

Repetitive motion. Tightening fittings, using wrenches, and performing the same hand and wrist movements repeatedly over time can lead to nerve and joint damage.

Working with power tools and torches. Pipe cutters, drills, and torches all carry a risk of cuts, and burns if something goes wrong.

Slip and fall hazards. Wet floors, ladders, and uneven outdoor surfaces make plumbers prone to falls, particularly when carrying tools or materials.

Exposure to chemicals and contaminants. Plumbers regularly work around sewage, mold, solvents, and soldering fumes, which can cause respiratory issues or skin conditions over time.

Vehicle accidents. Some plumbers don’t realize is that if they are injured in a car accident while driving to or from a job site during work hours, they are covered under Illinois workers’ compensation. This includes driving to, between, or home from job sites/customer’s homes during the workday. It also includes trips to pick up supplies and materials for a job.

Given these job hazards, certain injuries show up time and time again in plumbers’ workers’ compensation claims:

• Lower back strains, sprains, and herniated discs
• Knee injuries
• Carpal tunnel syndrome and other nerve entrapment conditions
• Burns
• Cuts and lacerations
• Eye injuries
• Fractures
• Respiratory problems
• Skin infections
• Neck and shoulder injuries
• Concussions and head injuries

Some of these injuries happen suddenly, in a single accident. Others, like nerve damage or chronic back problems, develop gradually after months or years of repetition or exposure. Illinois workers’ compensation law covers both types of injuries.

Plumbing injuries can be expensive to treat and can sideline you from work for weeks or months. Insurance companies sometimes try to dispute claims, arguing that a person’s age, previous health problems, or what they do in their free time are the cause. Having an experienced Illinois workers compensation lawyer on your side will even the playing field and help you get medical treatment approved, compensation for time off from work and eventually the settlement you deserve. Workers comp attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay them nothing upfront. They take a percentage of what they recover for you. 

If you are a plumber and you have been hurt on the job, call us at 312-346-5320 or complete our contact form. We have over 25 years of experience in connecting injured workers to the best attorney for their specific situation. We will do whatever we can to help you and we know amazing workers comp attorneys all over Illinois.