What are the most common injuries that occur in the workplace?

Injuries can cost both you and your employer vital time and money. Over 693,000 workers sustained a non-fatal injury in 2019-2020 alone. Workplace injuries can be anything from slipping on spilled water to an office fight. 

Workplace injuries are often down to poor office management and can be easily avoided with a few preventive measures. Here are the most common workplace injuries and how to prevent them.

Slips, trips and falls

One-third of personal injuries in the workplace comes down to slips, trips and falls. Simple things like low lighting, cluttered surfaces, wrinkled carpeting, and uneven walking surfaces can injure. The most common injuries are broken bones, cuts, sprains, and pulled muscles – ouch!

However, common injuries, like slips and falls, can be easily prevented through good housekeeping, quality flooring, proper footwear, and a hazard reporting system.

If you have sustained an injury in the workplace, consider contacting a personal injury solicitor for advice. You can click agrusslawfirm.com, to learn more about how a personal injury lawyer can help you streamline the entire process. Make sure you are also aware of how the injury occurred and who is responsible for the hazard. 

Muscle strains

Anyone who regularly lifts heavy items at work will be familiar with muscle strains. Back and neck strains are common in construction and factory environments. Basic lifting training can significantly reduce the chance of muscle strains happening in your workplace. 

Repetitive stress and overexertion injuries

RSI is a standard issue in various workplace environments. However, RSIs can be avoided through frequent breaks and ergonomic equipment. Simple acts like typing on a keyboard or sitting in an uncomfortable chair can lead to musculoskeletal disorders. 

Did you know employee complaints of back pain alone cost employers 7 billion dollars every year? 33% of occupational injuries stem from RSI. It will come as no surprise that this is the fastest-growing workplace injury and can make even the simplest of movements excruciating. 

Violence

Office fights can cause gruesome injuries, like cuts, bruises, and broken bones. Consider dealing with employee grievances head-on, instead of allowing the tension to bubble in the background. 

Check in with your employees to see how they are progressing at work and fitting in with the team. A private chat can ensure everyone is on the same page and receiving ample support at work. 

Hit by moving objects

Heavy machinery and various other construction equipment are significant safety hazards. Limbs can get stuck and flying objects can cause detrimental injuries. Invest in safeguarding and operating training, supply protective clothing, and educate your employees on the proper precautions needed.

Photo by Harlie Raethel on Unsplash