As Tesla is set to commence mass production of its first electric vehicle, the $35,000 Model 3, Oklahoma residents may have heard about employees at the California car factory suffering fainting spells on the job. As a result, many of the company’s workers have had to go to the hospital for treatment.
According to a May 18 report published in the Guardian newspaper, lengthy hours and stringent productivity goals caused Tesla’s assembly-line employees to feel stressed and exhausted in their efforts to accomplish the manufacturing plant’s goals. In fact, since 2014, workers have suffered multiple work-related symptoms, including seizures, dizziness and fainting spells, which has led to more than 100 emergency calls for ambulances.
In response to the report, the car factory’s CEO said that the company’s employees are experiencing difficulties as they work long hours on hard tasks but that he deeply cares about their well-being and health. Tesla has also reported that its safety record has improved significantly during 2016.
One Tesla employee who suffered a serious injury to his right arm said he believes the company is changing the world. The report also noted that several workers have been trying to unionize the factory. In regards to workplace safety at the auto manufacturing plant, Tesla said it intends to improve and become the safest auto industry factory with the help of employee input.
People who are hurt on the job have the right to file for certain types of benefits under Oklahoma’s workers’ compensation laws. No matter how they were injured, these individuals may be able to receive compensation for a percentage of their medical costs and wages related to their injuries. Employees who encounter difficulties receiving the benefits might want to consult a local attorney for guidance.