Avoid These Common Workplace Injuries

July 11, 2012

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, 3.1 million employees reported a nonfatal on-the-job injury or illness in 2010. Over half of these injuries resulted in missed days from work, job transfers or work restrictions. Employees should be aware of some of the more common types of workplace injuries and what steps they can take to prevent them.

Falls, Slips and Trips

Many workplaces have slippery surfaces or multiple levels. Employees can slip and fall on the same level or can fall from one level to the next, resulting in serious injuries such as sprains, broken bones, head trauma and spinal cord injuries. Employees can help prevent injuries by ensuring the workplace is clean and free of clutter. Employees should also use caution on stairs and ladders and should avoid carrying two-handed loads up and down stairs and ladders.

Motor Vehicle Accidents

When driving is part of an employee's duties, the employee runs the risk of being involved of a motor vehicle accident while working. Employees can reduce the risk of such accidents by practicing defensive driving techniques and eliminating distractions while driving. Employees should avoid cell phone use while driving; if they must use the phone to communicate for work purposes they should use headsets so they can keep both hands on the wheel.

Repetitive Motion Injury

Repetitive motion injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis and bursitis, strike employees who have to do the same tasks over and over again as part of their job duties. Some common causes of repetitive motion injuries include typing, assembly work, and other jobs that require people to maintain an awkward position while working. Employees can lessen their risk of repetitive motion injuries by making sure their workstations are ergonomically designed, maintaining good posture and taking frequent breaks during their work times.

Workplace Violence

Workplace violence, which occurs when employees attack or threaten fellow workers, is a growing problem across the country. The Department of Labor revealed that 2 million people in the U.S. report being victims of workplace violence each year. Employees can help prevent workplace violence by notifying their supervisors if they notice warning signs of violent behavior in other employees.

Consult an Attorney

Dealing with an on-the-job injury can turn a person's world upside down. People may wonder how they are going to pay their medical bills and meet basic living expenses while they are missing work and recovering from their injuries. Those who have suffered workplace injuries should seek the assistance of a seasoned workers' compensation attorney in order to ensure that they get the benefits to which they are entitled.

Article provided by Norfleet and Lafferty LLC
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