Sedentary jobs, while seemingly low-risk, can lead to a range of serious injuries over time. In Ontario, office workers and others in desk-bound roles are prone to developing health issues from prolonged sitting and repetitive movements. Understanding these common injuries is crucial for prevention and seeking compensation when you’ve been injured on the job.
Navigating worker’s compensation or long-term disability (LTD) claims in Ontario can be overwhelming, especially when your sedentary job classification affects your eligibility. At Goodman Elbassiouni LLP, our LTD and WSIB lawyers can help clients who are struggling with their disability claims, including those who have been classified as performing ‘sedentary work’. To learn more about your legal options, schedule your free consultation with our team today.
What Are Sedentary Jobs?
When applying for long-term or short-term disability benefits, the type of job you have can impact your claim. When it comes to sedentary work, the Canadian government and insurance companies use a specific definition to confirm your type of employment. Under the law, sedentary jobs are classified as involving:
- Minimal physical exertion
- Primarily sitting
- Limited walking and standing
- Occasional lifting, pushing, or pulling up to 10 pounds (where ‘occasional’ refers to activities that are performed up to ⅓ of the time)
- Frequent use of a negligible amount of force (where ‘frequent’ refers to activities that are performed between ⅓-⅔ of the time)
- And more
Individuals who spend long periods in a seated or stationary position, such as drivers, customer service representatives, or office workers, are at risk for injury and a variety of negative health effects. The most common jobs associated with sedentary work include:
- Writers and editors
- Software programmers and developers
- Data entry clerks
- IT support workers
- Lawyers, accountants, and bookkeepers
- Customer service representatives
- Administrative assistants
- Remote workers in general
- And more
If you develop an injury or illness while at your sedentary job that prevents you from working, you may be eligible for disability benefits through your insurance provider or the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB).
Common Injuries From Sedentary Jobs
There are a variety of injuries and illnesses you can develop while working at a sedentary job. These types of injuries can hinder your ability to work and may necessitate a short-term or long-term disability insurance claim.
Common sedentary injuries are related to sitting for prolonged periods or repetitive movements. They may affect the muscles, bones, tendons, or ligaments. Frequent injuries and illnesses that occur as a result of sedentary work include:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Mental health disorders
- Depression
- Postural problems
- Lower back pain
- Deep vein thrombosis and blood circulation issues
- Obesity
- Respiratory issues
- Chronic pain
- Chronic fatigue
- And more
Are you unsure of whether the injury or illness you have sustained at your sedentary job is eligible for compensation? By speaking with an experienced LTD or work injury lawyer, you can assess your situation with the aid of a professional and better understand your qualifications.
What to Do When You Are Injured at Your Sedentary Job
When you develop an injury or illness at work that prevents you from continuing your job, you can apply for LTD benefits through your insurer or file a claim with the WSIB. However, during LTD claims, the classification of your job can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case.
When you file for LTD benefits, a key component insurers consider is whether you can continue to perform sedentary work. If you can still perform sedentary work but cannot partake in more physically demanding jobs, you might not qualify for benefits. Conversely, if your medical condition restricts you to sedentary tasks, but your former job required more physical activity, you may be eligible for LTD benefits.
How Can A Disability Lawyer Help Me?
LTD claims involving sedentary work can be challenging due to the prevalence of ‘invisible’ disabilities that are not taken into fair account by insurance companies. For example, mental health issues or chronic pain can make it difficult to concentrate or focus, even if your work isn’t physically demanding.
This is why, when you are injured at your sedentary job and are seeking benefits, it is always advisable that you speak with a knowledgeable disability lawyer. A legal professional can assist you with:
- Clarifying Job Classifications: Ensuring that you and your insurance provider understand how your job is classified and how it may impact your claim.
- Handling Claim Denials: If your claim is denied or cut off due to a misunderstanding of your work classification, an LTD lawyer can provide the necessary legal guidance and representation.
- Advocating for Your Rights: An experienced lawyer will ensure your case is presented effectively, highlighting how your condition affects your ability to work, even in a sedentary role.
Misclassifications of sedentary work injuries can lead to wrongful denials or termination of benefits. If you’re experiencing difficulties with your LTD claim, seeking legal advice can make all the difference. At Goodman Elbassiouni LLP, our team is dedicated to supporting you through each stage of the LTD process, safeguarding your rights. Contact us today for a free case assessment.
Have You Been Injured From Sedentary Work? Speak With Our Team Today
Even as a sedentary worker, injuries or illnesses can have a significant impact on your life. You have rights, and Goodman Elbassiouni LLP is here to help you defend them. Our Toronto work injury and long-term disability lawyers are committed to protecting your rights, whether you’re dealing with disability claim denials or injuries related to sedentary work.
You can rely on us for exceptional legal support – we’ll be with you every step of the way to ensure you receive the justice you deserve. To schedule your free case assessment with our lawyers today, you can contact us online or call our Toronto office at 905-265-1005.
