Tripp v. Ridge Runner Timber Services

Claimant seeks review of an order of the Workers’ Compensation Board denying him benefits for a knee condition. The Board reversed the decision of the referee that the condition was an occupational disease and that Ridge Runner Timber Services was the responsible employer. The Board’s holding rests on its conclusion that claimant’s knee ailment is not an occupational disease but is merely symptomatic of a preexisting condition. We reverse.

Claimant has been a tree planter since 1977 and began working for Ridge Runner in January, 1983. He developed leg cramping after less than a month of work…