COVID-19 continues to affect people around the world. The fast-spreading virus has changed routines and made people rethink safety and good health practices. If you are back in the office or have been working onsite during the entire pandemic, your employer is responsible for your well-being. If you come into contact with the virus because your employer failed to protect you, it’s time to find a Workman’s Compensation Attorney in Ocala.

Improper Personal Protection

In your workplace, your employer should furnish you with personal protective equipment, or PPE. The type of PPE you need may depend on the type of work you do. Your employer should provide you with a mask for daily use (though you may be responsible for washing it), along with disposable gloves if necessary. Hand sanitizer and antibacterial soap are other considerations, and establishing social distancing rules. Areas being accessed by the public should also be routinely sanitized. Further job duties may require you to have a face shield, goggles or coveralls. If you get sick with COVID-19 because your employer didn’t give you this PPE, you may have a worker’s compensation case.

Lack of Training

Your job may demand that you work in close quarters with people. This could include truck drivers, grocery store clerks, doctors and other health care professionals, and repair service workers. If you work in these fields, your employer should train you thoroughly on how to safely interact with customers, or even install a plexiglass barrier. If you don’t get this training and fall ill, you should speak to an Ocala Workers Compensation Attorney.

Poor Virus Response

Your employer should take every prudent and reasonable step to create a safe environment for you. Cleaning crews should frequently and thoroughly sanitize all surfaces and contact points. Employees should work staggered shifts, if possible, to reduce the number of people in the office. Common gathering places in the office may need to be closed or restricted.

If your employer isn’t doing enough to limit your exposure to the coronavirus, contact a Workman’s Compensation Attorney in Ocala. You may be due financial compensation to help cover your medical expenses and damages. Contact JW Chalkley III, PA at 866-629-7511 or fill out the online contact form.