No one goes to work expecting to get injured, but it happens all the time. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), more than 4,764 deaths from workplace injuries each year in the United States. That’s a lot of people who are injured or killed on the job! In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common workplace injuries and how to avoid them.
1. Slips, trips and falls
This is one of the most common types of workplace injuries. Slips, trips and falls can occur anywhere there is a wet or slippery surface, an uneven surface, or something blocking your path. To avoid this type of injury, wear proper footwear with good traction, watch where you are walking, and use caution when walking on wet or slippery surfaces.
2. Repetitive motion injuries
Repetitive motion injuries occur when you perform the same motion repeatedly. This can happen when typing at a computer, using a power drill, or even lifting boxes. To avoid these injuries, take breaks often to stretch and move around. If possible, try to vary your tasks so that you are not doing the same thing all day long.
3. Back injuries
Back injuries are very common in the workplace. They can occur when you lift something heavy, twist your body awkwardly, or fall. To avoid these injuries, use proper lifting techniques (lift with your legs, not your back), and be careful when twisting your body. If you must lift something heavy, ask for help from a co-worker.
2. Carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a repetitive motion injury that affects the hands, wrists and arms. It is caused by the overuse of these body parts, particularly when typing or using a mouse. To avoid this type of injury, take breaks often to stretch your hands, wrists and arms. If possible, try to use an ergonomic keyboard and mouse.
5. Eye injuries
Eye injuries can occur when working with chemicals or other hazardous materials. They can also occur if something flies into your eye while working. To avoid these injuries, always wear proper eye protection when working with hazardous materials. If you are working in an area with a lot of dust or other flying particles, be sure to wear safety goggles.
6. Hearing loss
Hearing loss can occur when exposed to loud noises for an extended period. This often happens to people who work in construction, manufacturing or other noisy environments. To avoid this type of injury, always wear earplugs or noise-canceling headphones when working in a noisy environment.
7. Stress
Stress is not technically a workplace injury, but it can lead to other health problems. Stress can be caused by long hours, demanding work, and difficult co-workers. Try to take breaks often, exercise regularly, and eat healthy meals to avoid stress.
8. Musculoskeletal disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are injuries or pain in the muscles, nerves, tendons, joints, or other body parts. They can be caused by repetitive motions, lifting heavy objects, or working in an awkward position. To avoid MSDs, take breaks often to stretch and move around. If possible, try to vary your tasks so that you are not doing the same thing all day long.
Overall, the best way to avoid workplace injuries is to be aware of the hazards in your work environment and take precautions to avoid them. If you are ever injured on the job, be sure to seek the services of a workplace injury lawyer.
