Learning About Hospitality Industry Work Injuries
What is the hospitality industry, and how do workplace injuries occur in jobs in this industry? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the hospitality industry is a “supersector” that is one of many service-providing industries. Within the general framework of the hospitality industry, jobs are typically classified as being part of employment in “accommodation and food services,” as well as in the areas of “arts, entertainment, and recreation.” Accommodation and food services includes hotel and motel work, restaurant work, and related jobs. Jobs classified within the area of arts, entertainment, and recreation are broader ranging, including work related to performing arts, spectator sports, museum work, amusement parks, historical sites, gambling, and other recreation areas. Generally speaking, hospitality industry jobs are service jobs linked to guests who are traveling or visiting places nearby and far away for their own enjoyment or for business.
Given the range of jobs in the hospitality industry, this field of work can also result in many different kinds of injuries. Our Sunrise workers’ compensation lawyers can provide you with more information about common injuries in the hospitality industry and what you need to do in order to seek compensation.
Common Jobs in the Hospitality Industry
To gain a better understanding of how people get hurt on the job while working in the hospitality industry, it is essential to learn more about common types of jobs in this industry. The following are frequent jobs in the hospitality industry:
- Tour operators;
- Travel agents;
- Venue operators;
- Amusement park ride attendants;
- Hotel and motel guest services employees and custodial staff;
- Restaurant workers and other food and beverage employees; and
- Transportation workers, including bus drivers, tram operators, train conductors, cruise ship captains, and pilots.
Frequent Injuries in the Hospitality Industry
What types of injuries do hospitality workers suffer most often? The following kinds of injuries are especially common:
- Injuries resulting from slips, trips, or falls, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), broken bones, sprains, strains, and contusions;
- Injuries caused by improper lifting, especially back, neck, and shoulder strains or sprains;
- Falls from heights, which can lead to TBIs, spinal cord injuries, and other catastrophic injuries; and
- Injuries from assaults.
Seeking Workers’ Compensation Coverage
Most hospitality workers in Florida can be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits if their injury arises out of their employment. To seek compensation, it is essential to report the injury to the employer within 30 days and to seek medical care from an approved provider. A workers’ compensation lawyer in Sunrise can advise you on additional steps based on the particular facts of your case.
Contact a Sunrise Workers’ Compensation Attorney for More Information
Were you injured while working in the hospitality industry? While many people might not realize it, there are many injury risks that come with hospitality work, and it is important to understand your options for seeking compensation if you do get hurt on the job. Florida workers’ compensation law has specific requirements for an injured worker to receive medical coverage and wage replacement benefits, so it is important to get in touch with the experienced Sunrise workers’ compensation lawyers at the Law Offices of David M. Benenfeld, P.A. as soon as possible to get started on your case.
Sources:
bls.gov/iag/tgs/iag70.htm#about
flsenate.gov/laws/statutes/2017/440.09
