The risk of injuries faced by airport screeners is varied. Airport screeners around the country have reported back strains, lacerations, bruises, abrasions and even broken bones. As a result, proper training and techniques are key. It’s important that screeners utilize proper lifting technique and ergonomics. However, constrained work environments often make this difficult.

The TSA has publicly acknowledged the problem of these working conditions and is investing hundreds of millions in improvements. A major source of the problem is changes in security regulations and increased hiring of new personnel that has short-circuited proper training processes. “When you’re not trained properly in how to lift bags, you’re going to hurt something,” said Lyons, whose union represents TSA employees. The TSA says that it plans to train screeners on safe lifting techniques and to develop more specific standard operating procedures to avoid injury.

In 2012, OSHA reported that the injury and illness rate for TSA workers was 19.4 percent that year. The average for federal workers was 5.5 percent. These rate numbers represent how many times the government reimburses employees for on- the-job injuries or illnesses, divided by the total work force. The TSA employed about 65,000 people last year, with the vast majority working as screeners. Sadly, TSA screeners often complain they get the runaround when they file for worker’s compensation. This simply underscores the necessity of understanding your rights and responsibilities as an injured federal worker. Additionally, good union support, a doctor experienced in DOL paperwork and potentially a lawyer are key in getting the support you need.