Workers’ Compensation for Landscapers

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, landscaping is one of the most dangerous professions you can have. Below are a few of the most common accidents and injuries that can occur on the job.

Lacerations

Landscaping workers are at risk of lacerations due to handling sharp tools such as shears, pruners, trimmers, and chainsaws. These injuries can occur when trimming branches, cutting through dense foliage, or working with sharp materials like metal edging.

Without proper protection and handling, lacerations can lead to severe bleeding, nerve damage, and even infection, posing significant risks to the worker’s health and ability to perform their duties.

Amputation

The use of heavy machinery and power tools in landscaping increases the risk of amputation for workers. Mishaps with equipment such as lawnmowers, trimmers, or wood chippers can result in traumatic injuries leading to the loss of limbs or digits.

Even with safety protocols in place, the fast-paced nature of landscaping work and the complexity of machinery operation heighten the possibility of such catastrophic accidents, highlighting the importance of stringent safety measures and proper training.

Repetitive Stress Injuries

Landscaping tasks often involve repetitive motions such as digging, raking, or pruning, which can lead to repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) over time. Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and bursitis can develop due to the constant strain on muscles and tendons.

Without ergonomic equipment, regular breaks, and proper training in injury prevention techniques, landscapers are susceptible to chronic pain and reduced mobility, impacting both their work performance and overall well-being.

Electrocution

Landscaping workers face the risk of electrocution when working near power lines, using electrical equipment, or digging without knowledge of underground utilities. Accidental contact with live wires or faulty equipment can result in severe electrical burns, cardiac arrest, or even fatalities.

Ensuring workers are trained in electrical safety protocols, identifying potential hazards, and using insulated tools and personal protective equipment (PPE) can significantly reduce the likelihood of electrocution incidents on landscaping sites.

If a landscaper is not provided with sufficient or functioning PPE, they may not only have a workers’ comp claim, they may be able to file a personal injury claim in some cases.

Overexertion and Heat Stroke

Landscaping work often involves strenuous physical labor in outdoor environments, especially during hot weather conditions. Overexertion from lifting heavy objects, pushing equipment, or prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

Without adequate hydration, rest breaks, and protective clothing, workers are vulnerable to heat-related emergencies.

Back Injuries

The manual handling of heavy objects such as bags of soil, rocks, or landscaping equipment puts workers at risk of back injuries. Improper lifting techniques, repetitive bending, and twisting motions can strain the muscles, ligaments, and discs in the back, leading to acute or chronic pain, herniated discs, or spinal injuries.

Implementing proper lifting protocols, providing mechanical assistance, and promoting regular stretching exercises can help prevent back injuries among landscaping workers.

However, these techniques are not always communicated to new workers, and, in some cases, employers may put their workers at risk by telling them to “work harder” or “work through the pain.” When this happens, a workplace injury is nearly inevitable.

Disease

Yes, even diseases are covered by workers’ comp in California. And for landscapers, they are incredibly prevalent.

Landscaping workers may be exposed to various disease vectors, including ticks, mosquitoes, and poisonous plants, increasing the risk of contracting infections or illnesses such as Lyme disease, West Nile virus, or allergic reactions.

Handling soil, compost, or chemicals without adequate protection can also expose workers to pathogens or hazardous substances, potentially leading to respiratory issues, skin conditions, or systemic infections.

Employers must prioritize worker education on disease prevention strategies, provide appropriate PPE, and implement regular site inspections to minimize health risks associated with landscaping work.

Vehicle Accidents

Landscaping workers often use vehicles such as trucks, trailers, or utility vehicles to transport equipment, materials, and personnel between job sites. However, operating vehicles in congested areas, on uneven terrain, or during adverse weather conditions increase the likelihood of accidents such as collisions, rollovers, or vehicle overturns.

Lack of proper maintenance, distracted driving, or fatigue further exacerbate the risk of truck or car accidents, potentially causing severe injuries or fatalities.