Any injuries obtained in the workplace are a liability to the business where the injury occurred. For the health of an employee, and the wellness of a company, it’s best that procedures are put in place to avoid injury in the workplace. We recommend businesses hold a seminar in which employees are advised on how to stay safe in their respective workplace. To make you aware of what injuries you may want to focus on, we made a list of common workplace injuries.
Repetitive Motion Injury
There are several different work environments in which an individual may sustain a repetitive motion injury. Office workers may gain injury from constant work on the computer or if they consistently use tools. Delivery drivers, nurses, and athletes are often at risk for this type of injury. It’s best for employees to pay attention to what tasks they do when they experience the symptoms most often. Signs of repetitive motion injury may include the following:
- Throbbing
- Numbness
- Reduced flexibility
- Tingling
Hearing Loss
Noise exposure is a very real concern in areas such as plants, as the volume created by machinery can cause damage to one’s hearing in a matter of hours if they don’t have the proper protection. Anyone exposed to significant noise should arm themselves with the proper headgear. Symptoms of hearing loss may include the following:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Constantly turning up the volume on the television
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
Falls
Falls in the workplace may include slipping on a slick surface or falling off of a high area. Serious falls can often occur in various construction jobs or when working on roofs. To prevent falls, ladders should be placed against a stable surface, and you should not go above the top two steps. Workers should wear shoes with traction, and they should never work in high areas alone.
Vehicle and Equipment Injuries
Mechanics, farmers, and construction workers are often at risk to sustain injuries caused by the equipment they work with. Severe accidents can lead to broken bones, amputations, or concussions. Anyone working with heavy machinery needs to always pay full attention to their surroundings and wear appropriate protective gear.
Toxic Fumes
Toxic fume exposure can lead to respiratory diseases, organ damage, or cancer. Unfortunately, exposure often proves fatal to many workers. Companies should always monitor carbon monoxide and asbestos levels in a building. Workplaces should eliminate any toxic chemicals when they aren’t directly related to the profession. Environments that contain toxic chemicals should always have emergency kits and showers readily available.
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