It is important for employees and employers alike to recognize the most common workplace injuries. The more you understand about common injuries on the job, the easier it is to mitigate those risks and create a safer work environment.
There are several common injuries that occur in work environments.
Strains and sprains
Lifting heavy objects or repetitive motions can lead to strains and sprains. Most sprains and strains affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Reduce the risk of these injuries by using proper lifting techniques and taking regular breaks to stretch and rest.
Slips, trips and falls
The National Safety Council reported that more than 211,000 workers missed work time in 2020 following injuries from a fall. Some common causes include wet floors, cluttered walkways and uneven surfaces. To prevent these accidents, keep work areas well-organized and use proper signage to call attention to potential hazards.
Repetitive strain injuries
Repetitive strain injuries develop over time due to repeated motions. They frequently affect workers who use computers or handheld devices extensively. To prevent repetitive strain issues, employees should maintain proper posture, take regular breaks and use ergonomic equipment.
Falling objects
Objects falling from shelves or overhead racks can cause serious injuries. Employers should secure heavy items in storage, and employees should wear appropriate head protection when necessary.
Machinery accidents
Accidents involving machinery can lead to severe injuries, including amputations and fractures. Proper training, safety protocols and the use of protective equipment reduce the risks.
Be attentive to the risks of common workplace injuries. Keeping your workplace safe requires a team effort with proper training and proactive safety measures.