Going to work should not be “risky business,” yet over 550,000 people in the U.S. suffer injuries in the workplace each year. From slips and falls, and sprains and strains, to machinery or vehicle-related accidents, workplace injuries are all too common. Creating a safe workplace is important, not only for employees, but also for the productivity and financial success of companies. The best way to prevent unnecessary injuries is for businesses to create a comprehensive workplace safety program and clearly communicate those guidelines to employees.

Let’s take a look at some of the most common workplace injuries, along with practical tips on how to avoid them. 

1. Slips, Trips and Falls

These types of injuries are the number one cause of workers’ compensation claims, and represent one-third of all personal injuries in the workplace. Slips, trips and falls can cause injuries to the head, back and neck, as well as broken bones, cuts, sprains and pulled muscles. 

The reason these injuries are so prevalent is because the causes occur every day. We all encounter occasional spills on the floor, wet/oily surfaces, or icy walkways. Everyday hazards such as loose rugs, wrinkled carpeting or mats, loose cords or cables, and poor lighting are just some of the culprits behind trips and falls.

There are some simple measures we can take to prevents these types of workplace injuries, including: 

  • Install good lighting
  • Remove excess clutter from walkways.
  • Report/remove spills when they occur.
  • Secure loose rugs/mats/carpeting. 
  • Tape down or secure loose cables.
  • Remove ice and snow from walkways and use salt or sand.
  • Encourage proper footwear. 

 

2. Repetitive Stress and Overexertion Injuries

It’s estimated that back pain due to musculoskeletal injuries alone costs employers more than $7 billion a year annually and results in more than 100 million lost workdays each year. Sadly, the long term effects from back and neck injuries can be severe and debilitating for many people. And, of course, backs and necks are not the only body parts susceptible to injury. These type of injuries fall into two categories:

  • Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSIs) which represent the fastest-growing category of workplace injury. This type of injury is caused by repetitive motions and constant use of a body part, such as your shoulder, elbow, wrist or hand, which can result in damage to your muscles, tendons or nerves. RSIs can be very painful and make it difficult to do simple everyday tasks.

To avoid RSIs, employees who perform repetitive tasks should have frequent, short breaks throughout the day to stretch and rest. Using proper ergonomics (adjusting the task to fit the body’s needs) can also prevent injury, as well as wearing braces when necessary.

  • Overexertion injuries are generally caused by lifting heavy objects. Always remember that good advice – lift with your knees, not your back! Objects weighing over 50 pounds should require the assistance of another employee or be done by mechanical lifting. 

 

3. Sprains and strains

Sprains and strains are very common – comprising nearly 50% of workers’ compensation claims filed by employees. They affect a wide spectrum of workers, from manual laborers to office staff. Strains and sprains can affect the back, neck, knees, shoulders, hips or legs, and often result from overexertion, overextension, contact with objects, reactionary incidents, and improper lifting or movement techniques. 

Chances are, we’ve all experienced some form of muscle strain or sprain. However, when these injuries are severe and leave you unable to work for an extended period and/or require rehabilitation, they can disrupt your life. 

To prevent these injuries, it’s important to follow the proper safety techniques and use protective gear when necessary. If employers and their employees fail to adhere to safety guidelines, the risk of injury increases significantly. For instance, reactionary injuries often occur when workers attempt to avoid an accident on the job, leading to strains or sprains.

4. Moving machinery accidents

Working with heavy machinery, especially if it’s not properly guarded, can pose serious risks, whether it’s in a factory, on a construction site, or on a farm. Body parts can get caught in or struck by moving parts, which can often result in devastating injuries. 

The best way to prevent mechanical hazards is to clearly outline safety precautions and provide proper guards around moving parts. It’s also critical to train operators and provide protective clothing/gear to employees when necessary. 

Another common type of “machinery” that may cause accidents is vehicles. In fact, being struck by a moving vehicle or falling from a vehicle account for approximately 40% of workplace fatalities. Again, it’s important to design and communicate safety precautions, including clearly designating routes, posting signs, and enforcing speed limits. 

While these are the most commonly reported, there are many other types of workplace injuries including cuts, burns, inhalation of or exposure to toxic substances, and more.  

In the unfortunate event that you suffer a workplace injury, seeking medical attention is a priority. Additionally, you should consider consulting with an attorney to explore the possibility of a workers’ compensation claim. To discuss your case, please reach out to us at our toll-free number, 855-614-4351, for a free evaluation, or use our online contact form. Your well-being and legal rights are our top priorities.

Stay safe out there!