5 Common Injuries That Happen In The Workplace

Workplace injuries are a common occurrence, especially where machines and lifting of heavy objects are involved. But, that’s not to say all office jobs are safe. There are many injuries that one could sustain even while working at the office. Regardless of where the accident takes place, the results can be very devastating. As such, both small and established companies should always prioritize the safety of their workers and customers.

However, even with safety measures in place, one can never avoid accidents in the workplace. A good percentage of these incidents occur from simple mistakes, like not clearing the passageways and not wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Obviously, these could lead to injuries of varying gravity.

Here’s a list of some of the most prevalent injuries that may occur in the workplace, as well as ways on how you can prevent them:

1. Muscle Strain

Muscle strains are usually due to lifting heavy items or a sudden change of direction. A muscle strain may occur when your muscle is overstretched or torn due to a heavy task.  Neck and back strains are the most frequently sustained injuries in the workplace.

For instance, if you lift a box full of books, yet you’re not used to such a task, there are high chances of you straining your muscles. Of course, this could happen even to the most experienced workers, and it can cause a lot of pain.

The best precautionary measure against this form of injury is to train on proper lifting techniques. In addition, ask for help or use a lifting machine when lifting heavy items rather than overworking your muscles. If you’re already a victim, you could reduce the pain by applying ice on the strained area and compressing it to avoid swelling. Getting some rest will also hasten the recovery process.

2. Injuries Resulting From Slips, Trips, And Falls

These are among the most common accidents that can happen at any workplace. Whether you work in a factory, a shop, or an office, you’re always likely to encounter slippery floors. Unstable floor coverings, poor lighting, and trailing cables are other hazards you might come across. A momentary lapse of attention while walking on these areas could end in a stumble down the stairway or even a fall from a significant height. All these events could lead to minor or more devastating injuries. For one, you can easily sustain minor bruises or, worse, break your limbs.

To prevent these accidents from occurring, you’ll need a good-quality walking surface, good housekeeping, and an appropriate walking style. Using the right footwear at the right time and place will also contribute to your safety. Inasmuch as all companies are required to set safety precautions, these types of accidents are highly dependent on individual actions. Nonetheless, it’s still important to contact the likes of injuryclaimcoach.com to help you assess the situation and find out whether you’re eligible for compensation if you happen to figure in one of the said incidents.

3. Eye Strain

Eye strains are prevalent among employees who spend most of their working hours using computers. Some of the main symptoms of eye problems include heavy eyelids and painful eyes. Sometimes, these can become severe issues to a point where the victim develops permanent eye damage. The treatment can be very expensive, too. For instance, one might need to undergo surgery, or buy expensive lenses or costly drugs. In the long run, you may not be able to meet these demands.

If your daily tasks revolve around computers, it would be prudent to take the necessary measures to prevent eye strain. For one, wear protective lenses to reduce the amount of light hitting your eyes. This type of gear also rids you of dangerous rays that could potentially damage your sight. Another precaution you could take is by maintaining the right distance between your eyes and the computer monitor.

4. LOW BACK PAIN

This type of injury is quite common among office workers who sit in front of their computers for hours. It’s said to be the leading cause of disability due to its prevalence across the globe. The fact of the matter is anyone can sustain a back injury at any place. In fact, it has become a big problem among adults, and everyone is expected to be a victim at some point in their life.

So, how can you prevent this injury?  The most effective measure is to learn good posture habits while seated at the office. Always make sure that your feet are planted on the floor or a reliable supporter. The back support should also be firm and well-designed to fit your back. Finally, relax your shoulders occasionally to release tension.

5. BURNS DUE TO FIRES AND EXPLOSIONS

Another group of injuries worth mentioning involves burns and disfigurements, which could come as a result of fires and explosions. Such accidents may be caused by improper storage of combustible substances or faulty gas lines. Although they account for a small percentage of workplace injuries, these are very dangerous and could lead to permanent damages. For instance, some people may develop respiratory complications, which could completely change their lives.

The best way to avoid such injuries is to prevent fires from occurring in the first place. Companies should thoroughly train their employees before they embark on various duties at the workplace. Also, there should be some precautionary measures in place to help workers safely vacate the premises in case of a fire incident. These procedures can be printed and pinned on various noticeboards for easy reference.

CONCLUSION

Accidents may occur in every workplace, even with several safety measures already put in place. Although most of them result in minor injuries, some can lead to devastating outcomes. Muscle strains, for instance, may not have severe repercussions on the victims since the recovery time is quite short. However, there are rare cases in which the victim could be seriously injured to a point where they can no longer be productive in their career.

Fortunately, all the injuries mentioned in the article are preventable. If you’re working an office job, for example, make sure you practice proper sitting habits to avoid low back pain. Also, use the right lifting techniques or machines when lifting heavy objects or call for help if possible. Workplace safety is a collective duty, but it must start with individual responsibility.