No matter how much you try to avoid it, workplace injuries are often an unfortunate reality – whether your business is in the construction industry or has an office setting.
Yet, there are ways to minimize the number of accidents. One of the most effective is to implement effective safety measures, something which can be supported by a better understanding of the most common workplace injuries.
Regarding the latter, the following covers the types of injuries frequently experienced in the workplace and preventative strategies for creating a safer environment for your employees.
Slips, Trips, and Falls
When it comes to the most common workplace injuries across all industries, there’s only one place to start: slips, trips, and falls. Wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, cluttered walkways – there are various reasons why these accidents can occur. The consequences of this injury type can range widely from minor bruises and sprains to severe fractures and head injuries.
Although impossible to completely eliminate, there are ways to reduce slips, trips, and falls. Well-lit work areas. Floors kept clean and dry. Walkways free of obstacles. All of this can help significantly. Depending on your industry, you could also supply employees with proper footwear and install non-slip mats in high-risk areas.
Strains and Sprains
Strains and sprains – especially to the back and neck – are common in workplaces involving manual labor. Repetitive movements. Lifting heavy objects. Poor ergonomics. These are the primary causes of these injuries. However, don’t think office workers are exempt. Even seemingly minor issues like poor posture and inadequate workstation setup can result in similar issues.
In terms of prevention, you can offer training on proper lifting techniques and check workstations are ergonomically designed. Additionally, encourage regular breaks and stretching exercise to further assist in preventing strains and sprains.
Cuts and Lacerations
Similar to the other injuries, cuts, and lacerations can occur in almost any workplace. This often results from the use of sharp tools, machinery, or even office equipment like paper cutters. These injuries can range from minor cuts to more severe lacerations, which require medical attention.
Safety protocols should include proper training on the use of tools and machinery. This also includes the use of protective gear like gloves. You should also include first aid kits, including a plentiful supply of plasters, on hand. A plaster, for instance, can help control bleeding and reduce the potential for infection.
Burns
Although not common across all industries, burns occur in food service, manufacturing, and construction. Contact with hot surfaces, chemicals, or electrical hazards can all cause injury, and the severity can vary from minor first-degree burns to more serious third-degree burns that require extensive medical treatment.
To prevent burns, the use of personal protective equipment – think gloves and face shields – should be enforced. Adequate training in handling hazardous materials should be mandatory, and all employees must strictly follow safety protocols. A first kit, again, should also be available. Using burn plasters and dressings can mitigate the damage, ensuring the burn is not as severe as it could be.
