What is Happening to Injured Computer Users? A Study of CWA District 1 Members

Abstract

Using quantitative and qualitative data, this study sought to characterize the results of workers' compensation claims filed by CWA computer users in New York and New Jersey and document the perception of a small sample of workers living with these disorders. Most of CWA District 1's injured computer users in this study were diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome. The vast majority of the workers who have gone before a workers' compensation judge have been found to meet the criteria for a “permanent” disability. The survey also reveals that compensation levels vary enormously between New York and New Jersey, and that the amount of compensation received by many workers in both states is very low. Interview data expand this picture by illuminating injured workers' perceptions of the responses of their employers, their experience within the health care and compensation systems, and the impact of these injuries both at home and at work.