| The focus of this research has been on the claimsmaking process in the worker compensation system for accidental injuries suffered at work or during the course of the worker's employment. Specifically, the study examines the claims' legitimation process for acute injuries experienced in the workplace. This research analyzes claims for on-the-job injuries from the perspective of the worker, within the context of workplace health and safety.;Analysis of the data reveals that witnessing, timing and early reporting of an on-the-job injury increases the probability of compensation and restitution under worker compensation. While my data supports Weber's view that bureaucracies grow and treat people in impersonal ways, there appears to be a great deal of discretion and slack within the worker compensation system. My findings suggest that the elements of bureaucracy do provide a cloak of legitimacy to the system since it seems like it is rule driven, even as lawyers cut deals with each other in the hallways of the courtrooms behind the worker's back.;Management and employers should be educated to the economic and social advantages of rehabilitating and returning the injured worker to his/her job. Current worker compensation benefits are too low and needs to be increased according to experts in the field. There is a greater need for worker empowerment at work as well as for occupational health and safety inspection and supervision of the workplace.;Undoubtedly, the workplace would benefit greatly from a stronger effort to unionize blue-collar, service workers since both owners and unions claim to be concerned about absenteeism and the health and safety of workers on-the-job. Additionally, greater education for workers regarding their rights under the worker compensation system could go a long ways toward reducing the extent of disability and time away from work, as well as lower the costs to the system. Finally, greater humanization of the claimsmaking process can make for a more satisfied management and a happier, more productive workforce. (Abstract shortened with permission of author.). |
