Ghosts, ghouls and goblins aren’t the only frightening things around the Halloween season. The spooky holiday’s festivities comes with an increased chance of injuries at the workplace. Although the correlation between Halloween and workplace accidents might not seem obvious, the scary fun that accompanies this time of year brings about more opportunities for employees to suffer from injuries or illnesses while at workplace gatherings.
Costumes & Tasty Treats
Although all holidays are an excuse to celebrate at a workplace party, Halloween presents more threats given the nature of the festivities. Masks and costumes can be hazardous on the job and could result in an accidental trip or fall leaving you injured and possibly incapable of performing your job duties. In addition to injuries caused by costumes, treats served at Halloween work parties could cause employees to fall ill if they are poorly prepared. This could result in an employee suffering from an extended sickness which, under certain circumstances, could be covered under workers’ compensation.
What is Covered?
Not all injuries caused by Halloween-related activities at work are eligible for workers’ compensation. Your employer is generally only responsible for an injury if it happens at your workplace during the course of your normal employment. If it is outside the hours you work, and you attended the party on a voluntary basis, it is possible that any injury or illness incurred would not be considered a work-related injury. If, however, a Halloween or costume party is beyond your normal work hours but your employer requires your attendance as a job responsibility, your injury would be considered a direct result of your employment and you should seek workers’ comp benefits.
By taking extra precautions during your workplace Halloween celebrations this year, you can increase your likelihood of avoiding an injury altogether. If you do find yourself in the unfortunate situation in which you are injured or fall ill because of a spooky situation at work, do not hesitate to contact Poirier Law Firm. Our main priority is to work with you to determine if you are eligible for workers’ comp as a result of your accident and ultimately fight to earn you the benefits you deserve. The only thing scary this time of year should be the vampires and zombies showing up at your door. Let Poirier Law Firm take care of the rest!