Small Business Workers in New York Face Rising Risks on the Job

From busy bodegas and bakeries to family-run construction crews and corner laundromats, small businesses keep New York moving. But a new nationwide survey reveals a growing threat to the workers behind these operations—preventable injuries are happening far too often, and in many cases, they could have been avoided.

At Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano LLP, our New York workers’ compensation attorneys know the toll workplace injuries can take. And while large corporations may have safety departments and compliance teams, small business workers are often left exposed with limited protection and even less support when something goes wrong.

What the Survey Found—and Why It Matters in New York

According to a 2025 survey by Pie Insurance and cited by Safety+Health magazine, 75% of small businesses nationwide experienced workplace injuries in the past year, with half of them considered preventable. The most common injuries included:

• Slips, trips, and falls (59% of all preventable injuries)
• Cuts, lacerations, and puncture wounds
• Overexertion and repetitive strain injuries
• Work-related mental health conditions

These findings hit close to home for many in New York City. In neighborhoods across the five boroughs, countless workers are on their feet all day in restaurants, retail shops, salons, food carts, and repair shops—exactly the kinds of environments where slips, strains, and cuts are common. And when safety protocols are lacking or equipment is outdated, the consequences can be severe.

New York’s Small Business Workers Often Lack Safety Resources

New York is home to thousands of small businesses, employing nearly half the private workforce across the state. But many of these employers—especially those with fewer than 50 employees—struggle to implement consistent safety standards. The Pie Insurance survey also revealed:

• Nearly half of small business owners admit they’ve had to improvise safety solutions due to a lack of proper equipment.
• Improvised safety measures led to higher average lost workdays and greater out-of-pocket expenses for both businesses and injured workers.

In other words, when small employers cut corners on safety, it’s workers who pay the price—physically, financially, and emotionally.

Common Small Business Injuries We See in NYC Workers’ Comp Cases

Our law firm has represented injured employees from all corners of the city.

Whether you’re a deli worker in the Bronx who slipped on a greasy floor; a dishwasher in Queens who suffered a severe wrist laceration from broken glass, or a package runner in Manhattan who developed back problems from constant lifting with no training or assistance, our attorneys can help you navigate the workers’ compensation process and fight for the benefits you deserve.

We frequently help workers in industries such as:

• Food service and hospitality (burns, slips, cuts, repetitive strain)
• Retail and bodegas (fall injuries, stockroom accidents, shoplifting-related assaults)
• Cleaning and janitorial services (chemical exposure, falls, ergonomic injuries)
• Home health aides and care workers (lifting injuries, patient-related trauma)
• Construction subcontractors and building maintenance crews (falls, tool injuries, lack of fall protection)

Even in jobs that may not seem physically dangerous, we’ve seen claims related to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns stemming from job stress, harassment, or toxic work environments, especially when proper support systems are missing.

Why Legal Help Makes a Difference for Small Business Employees

Too often, injured workers at small companies feel isolated or unsure of their rights. Some hesitate to report their injuries because they don’t want to cause problems for a family-run business or risk retaliation. Others don’t realize they have a valid workers’ compensation claim, especially if they’ve been told to “walk it off” or “use your own insurance.”

But New York’s workers’ compensation laws apply to nearly every employer, no matter the size of the business. That means:

• You have a right to medical care for your injury.
• You can recover a portion of your lost wages while you’re unable to work.
• You may qualify for long-term benefits if your injury leads to disability.

And if your employer or their insurance carrier disputes your claim, our team is ready to fight for you. We’ve spent more than 90 years standing up for injured workers throughout New York—and we’re here to help you, too.

Stronger Safety Measures Mean Fewer Injuries—And Better Business

The surge in preventable injuries isn’t just a safety concern—it’s a business issue. Companies that invest in proper safety equipment, training, and accountability have fewer workplace accidents, less turnover, and lower insurance costs. The message is clear: protecting workers isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s smart management.

But until every employer gets that message, injured workers still need strong legal advocates in their corner.

If You Were Hurt While Working for a Small Business in New York, We Can Help

Whether you work for a dry cleaner in Brooklyn, a grocery store in the Bronx, or a repair shop in Queens, you have rights under New York’s workers’ compensation law. And if those rights are denied or delayed, Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano LLP is here to fight for you.

Don’t let a work-related injury or illness derail your life. Contact us today for a free case evaluation to see how an experienced New York workers’ compensation lawyer can help you find your way forward.

“This firm is amazing. They took my case when others didn’t. They stood with me throughout the whole process and helped me get the right amount I needed. I highly recommend using them. Thank you again, all of you.” – Rene A., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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When employees are racing to meet unreasonable deadlines, lifting heavy packages, and working beyond their capacity to avoid losing their jobs, something isn’t right with a company’s work operations. Unfortunately, this is the daily reality for many Amazon warehouse workers.

A recent Senate investigation has exposed troubling concerns about how Amazon prioritizes fast delivery over employee safety. This investigation is raising serious questions about the human cost behind Amazon’s rapid shipping promises.

For 18 months, The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pension (HELP) Committee investigated Amazon’s workplace practices. Their findings reveal a company that relentlessly pushes for speed at the expense of its workers’ well-being. Interviews with more than 130 Amazon employees and a review of seven years of injury data uncovered injury rates at Amazon warehouses that far exceed industry standards.

How dangerous are Amazon warehouses compared to industry standards?

According to the investigation, Amazon warehouse employees are nearly twice as likely to suffer injuries compared to workers at other warehouses. While the company claims that it prioritizes a safe working environment, it reported over 30% more injuries than the industry average in 2023 alone.

The investigation points to Amazon’s relentless drive for speed as the core issue. Workers are under constant pressure to maintain “an extremely fast and often dangerous pace.” While safety protocols technically exist, employees report that the company’s demanding productivity quotas make it nearly impossible to follow them. The fear of missing targets often forces workers to cut corners, which leads to a higher risk of accidents and injuries.

Employees describe an unforgiving system where even brief slowdowns can trigger warnings or disciplinary action. This constant strain turns routine tasks into high-risk activities that increase the likelihood of musculoskeletal injuries, falls, and other workplace hazards.

This is far from the first time Amazon has been criticized for unsafe working conditions. Workers in Bessemer, Alabama, have attempted to unionize multiple times since 2022, citing dangerous conditions and unrealistic productivity demands as major concerns.

What does the data say about Amazon injury rates?

Beyond the troubling injury rates, the Senate investigation accuses Amazon of distorting its safety data to minimize how dangerous its warehouses truly are. The company reportedly compares its injury rates to those of large warehouses with over 1,000 employees. However, since many of Amazon’s facilities have far fewer workers, this selective comparison skews the data and makes Amazon’s safety record seem better than it actually is.

The Senate committee called out this practice as misleading. “If the injury rate at Amazon’s warehouses was compared to the average injury rate for all of the nation’s warehouses — instead of just those included in the company’s preferred subcategory — Amazon’s safety record would look much more troubling,” the report noted.

This strategic data manipulation raises serious concerns about Amazon’s transparency and whether it genuinely values worker safety or simply manages its public image.

Perhaps even more alarming are claims that Amazon discourages injured workers from seeking adequate medical care. The investigation highlights troubling practices within Amazon’s on-site health clinics, known as AmCare. Employees report that AmCare staff often blame them for their injuries and actively discourage them from pursuing outside medical treatment.

Rather than referring injured workers to specialists for proper diagnosis and care, AmCare allegedly limits treatment to basic first aid. In some cases, employees say they were sent back to work without proper evaluation.

What kinds of injuries occur in Amazon warehouses?

Behind Amazon’s promise of lightning-fast delivery are workers enduring chronic pain, limited mobility, and sometimes permanent disabilities. The physically demanding nature of warehouse work has led to widespread musculoskeletal injuries in Amazon warehouses.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has previously flagged Amazon for exposing workers to these hazards. For example, employees have reported twisting, bending, and reaching for items up to nine times per minute during peak shifts. Over time, this intense physical strain leads to back injuries, joint pain, and repetitive stress disorders.

Our law firm protects the rights of injured warehouse workers

Being hurt on the job can be a frustrating experience, especially when your employer pushes you to exceed your physical limits. While the medical bills are piling up, your paycheck has stopped, and you’re worried about how to support yourself and your family, you may not know where to turn.

The good news is that the New York workers’ compensation system is designed to compensate you for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation while you recover. However, getting workers’ comp benefits can be a complicated process without the help and guidance of an experienced New York workers’ comp lawyer.

The legal team at Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano LLP has over 90 years of experience protecting the rights of hardworking New Yorkers like you. Our team has a deep understanding of New York’s workers’ compensation laws and fights relentlessly to make sure our clients get the medical care and financial compensation they need.

It costs you nothing to talk to us, and there’s no pressure—just honest answers and real help. To learn more about your potential legal options after a work injury, contact us today for your free consultation.

“Pasternack Tilker Ziegler have been awesome in handling my injury case. My paralegal Randy Paula has been especially attentive and helpful through this entire process. I don’t think I would be having this much success in getting treatments without them.”
– J.M., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Construction workers face significant health risks from exposure to hazardous chemicals on the job, with per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) emerging as a major concern. Known as “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down in the environment, PFAS are linked to serious health issues, including cancer, liver damage, and immune system dysfunction.

To better understand the dangers PFAS pose at construction sites, researchers have launched a groundbreaking study to assess the impact of these chemicals on workers nationwide.

“This is the first study to systematically document PFAS exposures in the construction sector,” explained Public Health Research Associate Professor Anila Bello of the Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences in an interview with UMass Lowell. “We will perform a comprehensive assessment of PFAS present in workers, the sources of the exposure, and how PFAS enter the body.”

This research seeks to shed light on a long-overlooked health risk, offering critical insights into how construction workers can be protected from harmful chemical exposure on the job.

What are PFAS and why are they so dangerous?

PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” are synthetic substances originally created to repel water, grease, and other materials from surfaces. While their versatility made them popular in a wide range of products, these chemicals are now known for their persistence in the environment and their ability to accumulate in the human body, potentially causing serious health problems.

As explained by UMass Lowell, PFAS chemicals earned their “forever” nickname because they don’t break down easily. Instead, they linger in soil, water, and even our bodies for years.

Common sources of PFAS exposure include:

• Construction materials: Paints, varnishes, glues, and adhesives frequently used at job sites.
• Insulation products: Especially those used for electrical wiring and other installations.
• Water-resistant clothing: Outdoor gear and textiles designed to repel water often contain PFAS.
• Food packaging: Grease-resistant wrappers and containers used in fast food or takeout packaging.
• Firefighting foam: Commonly used in training exercises and emergency situations.
• Nonstick cookware: Popular coatings like Teflon often rely on PFAS chemicals.
• Cosmetics: Waterproof or long-lasting makeup products frequently contain PFAS.

For construction workers, the risks are particularly high due to regular exposure to PFAS in paints, adhesives, and insulation materials on job sites.

Common workplace illnesses caused by PFAS

Exposure to PFAS can lead to serious health issues for workers across various industries, including construction. These synthetic substances are linked to a range of illnesses that can develop after prolonged or repeated exposure on the job.

Common PFAS-related workplace illnesses include:

• Cancer: PFAS exposure has been associated with several types of cancer, including kidney, thyroid, testicular, and breast cancer.
• Kidney diseases: Workers may develop chronic kidney diseases, reduced kidney function, or even kidney failure due to exposure.
• Liver damage: PFAS chemicals can lead to liver failure or other forms of chronic liver damage.
• Immune system disorders: PFAS can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections and recover from illnesses.
• Fertility issues: Exposure to PFAS may result in reduced fertility in both men and women.
• Pregnancy-related complications: Pregnancy-induced hypertension and preeclampsia, which involve dangerously high blood pressure during pregnancy, have been linked to PFAS exposure.

Why are PFAS so common on construction sites?

PFAS are everywhere, with most Americans exposed to them at some point, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, construction workers face an elevated risk due to the nature of their work, which often involves regular contact with materials and conditions that increase the likelihood of exposure. This heightened risk is why researchers are focusing on construction workers in their upcoming study to assess the severity of PFAS-related illnesses in the industry.

Here are some key reasons why construction workers are particularly vulnerable to PFAS exposure:

• Handling hazardous materials: Construction workers frequently work with products containing PFAS, such as paints, varnishes, adhesives, and insulation materials. Regular exposure during handling or application increases the risk of long-term health issues.
• Demolition work: Tearing down old buildings or structures can release PFAS-containing materials into the air. This process often generates airborne particles that can be inhaled, raising the risk of PFAS-related illnesses.
• Inhaling hazardous dust: Construction sites are filled with dust particles, many of which may contain PFAS. Without proper protective equipment, workers can inhale these particles, leading to cumulative exposure over time.

The combination of direct handling, airborne risks, and dust inhalation makes PFAS a significant hazard for construction workers.

How are researchers studying PFAS exposure?

According to the UMass Lowell article, researchers recently received a $600,000 grant from the Center for Construction Research and Training to study PFAS exposure levels among construction workers.

The Center for Construction Research and Training is funded by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Researchers will study PFAS levels in construction workers’ blood, urine, and stool samples.

The study will enable researchers to identify the severity of PFAS exposure among construction workers, along with which chemicals workers are being exposed to the most on the job.

“Our goal is to reduce and, when possible, eliminate PFAS exposures at the source and ultimately to minimize health risks among those who work in construction and allied trades,” researcher Dhimiter Bello said in an interview with UMass Lowell. “This, in turn, is expected to reduce PFAS-related occupational diseases.”

How an attorney can help if you’ve developed a work-related illness

Construction workers face unique and significant risks from PFAS exposure, with potentially devastating health consequences. This groundbreaking study is a critical step toward understanding and addressing the dangers of “forever chemicals” in the construction industry. But for workers already suffering from illnesses caused by PFAS, the path to justice and recovery can feel overwhelming.

If you or a loved one has developed a work-related illness due to PFAS exposure in New York, taking immediate action is essential. These cases are complex, often involving workers’ compensation claims, third-party liability, or other legal avenues to secure the compensation you need for medical care, lost wages, and future expenses.

At Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano LLP, we have decades of experience fighting for construction workers in New York who have been injured or made ill on the job. Our team understands the challenges workers face, and we’re committed to pursuing every available legal option to hold responsible parties accountable.

Don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. With 12 offices across New York, including five in NYC, we’re ready to fight for you and your family.

“The firm treated me with respect and dignity and handled all my workers comp issues with ease. I highly recommend them. Thank you.” – Eduardo D., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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The National Safety Council (NSC) recently released a report that sheds light on the increasing hazards workers face in various industries, including those in New York. As workplace safety becomes a growing concern, it’s essential for workers to understand these hazards and their legal rights after suffering a work-related injury or illness.

If you’re injured on the job in New York, a workers’ compensation lawyer from Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano LLP can help ensure you receive the benefits you’re entitled to under New York law.

Work accident statistics

The NSC report highlights several troubling trends in workplace safety. For instance, in 2022, workplace fatalities in the U.S. reached alarming levels, with over 5,000 workers losing their lives due to on-the-job accidents.

Specifically, in New York City, there were 83 fatal work injuries reported in 2022, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additionally, non-fatal injuries and illnesses have continued to rise, leading to significant economic and personal impacts on workers and their families.

In New York City alone, thousands of workers suffer from non-fatal injuries annually, which can result in long-term health issues, loss of income, and high medical expenses.

Common workplace hazards

Several common hazards contribute to the rising rates of workplace injuries and fatalities, including:

• Slip and fall accidents: These accidents are among the most frequent causes of workplace injuries, often resulting from wet or uneven surfaces, poor lighting, and inadequate safety measures.
• Machinery and equipment hazards: Workers in manufacturing and construction are particularly at risk from machinery and equipment. Improper maintenance, lack of training, and malfunctioning equipment can lead to severe and sometimes fatal injuries.
• Hazardous substances: Exposure to toxic chemicals and materials can cause long-term health issues, including respiratory problems, skin conditions, and cancer.
• Ergonomic hazards: Poor workstation design, repetitive motions, and improper lifting techniques contribute to musculoskeletal disorders, which are a leading cause of workplace injuries.
• Workplace violence: Unfortunately, incidents of workplace violence, including assaults by coworkers or customers, are on the rise and pose a significant risk to employee safety.

The role of technology in enhancing workplace safety

The NSC report emphasizes the potential of technology to mitigate these hazards and improve workplace safety. Innovative solutions such as wearable devices, safety apps, and advanced machinery with built-in safety features are transforming how employers approach safety protocols.

These technologies can monitor workers’ environments in real time, provide instant alerts for hazardous conditions, and ensure that machinery operates safely and efficiently.

“At the heart of Work to Zero’s mission is preventing worker injuries and ultimately saving lives,” said Katherine Mendoza, senior director of workplace programs at NSC, per the recent report. “Since the initiative began, what we have found is that there are numerous technology solutions available to employers to help mitigate risks and keep workers safe. However, workplace hazards are constantly evolving as job demands change, which is why it’s critical to regularly assess industry risks to better understand trends and find the right solutions.”

Injured workers have legal rights

Workers injured on the job in New York are often entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, which can cover the cost of medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. However, navigating the claims process can be challenging without the help of a lawyer.

At Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano LLP, we have extensive experience representing workers who have been injured on the job. Our highly skilled attorneys understand the nuances of workers’ compensation law in New York and are dedicated to ensuring you receive the benefits you deserve.

We also offer legal representation on a contingency fee basis, which means there are no upfront or out-of-pocket costs, and you pay nothing unless we win your case. If you or a loved one has suffered a work-related injury in New York, our law firm is here to help. Contact us today for a free evaluation to discuss your case and explore your potential options for obtaining the compensation you deserve.

“The firm treated me with respect and dignity and handled all my workers’ comp issues with ease. I highly recommend them.” – Former client.

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While Memorial Day in May is widely recognized, there’s another important commemoration that often goes unnoticed: Workers’ Memorial Day. Observed in April, this day serves as a poignant reminder of the workers who have lost their lives to work-related injuries or illnesses.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Workers’ Memorial Day honors those who have tragically died on the job and “encourages us to think of ways in which we all can help to achieve the goal of safer and healthier workplaces.”

Our New York workers’ compensation attorneys at Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano, LLP explain the significance of this annual event and the importance of seeking legal help if you were injured while on the job.

If you’ve suffered a work-related injury or illness, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Seeking guidance from an experienced work injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and pursue the full extent of compensation you deserve.

What is Workers’ Memorial Day?

In 1970, the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) created Workers’ Memorial Day. At that time, an estimated 38 people each day died as a result of work-related illnesses or accidents, according to a U.S. Department of Labor. That’s more than 13,870 work-related fatalities each year, on average.

Have work-related fatalities gone down since 1970?

The good news is that workplace deaths have decreased nationwide since 1970. In 2022, a total of 5,486 people died in work-related accidents, according to the most recent workplace fatality data compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

However, compared to more recent years, that figure is worse. For example, the year before, 5,190 people died in work-related accidents in 2021. The year before that, there were only 4,764 workplace fatalities nationwide, according to BLS data.

What are the most common causes of workplace fatalities?

Based on workplace accident data compiled by the BLS and the Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI), some of the most common causes of workplace fatalities continue to include:

• Work-related transportation accidents, which account for more than 2,100 workplace fatalities each year, on average.
• Slip, trip and fall accidents, which account for more than 800 workplace deaths per year.
• Exposure to harmful substances, which result in more than 800 deaths per year.
• Being struck by an object or equipment at work, which accounts for more than 700 annual deaths.
• Violence at work, which results in more than 800 deaths per year, on average.

“While significant progress has occurred since the passage of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (in 1970), much more remains to be made,” the CDC said in a recent announcement about the annual Workers’ Memorial Day event.

Protecting the rights of injured workers in NY for over 90 years.

Dealing with a serious work-related injury or illness in New York can be complicated. In most cases, you should be eligible to receive workers’ workers’ compensation benefits if you get sick or hurt at work. However, obtaining the benefits you rightfully deserve can often be much more difficult than you might expect.

Our New York City workers’ compensation attorneys at Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano, LLP can help you every step of the way. Our highly skilled legal team has decades of experience handling complicated workers’ compensation claims throughout New York and has recovered over $1 billion in awards and settlements for our clients.

Get the law firm that gets results for injured New Yorkers. Contact us and schedule an appointment with a workers’ compensation lawyer who will put your best interests first. We have 12 offices conveniently located in New York, including five offices in New York City.

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