Accidents do happen, and workplace accidents are no different. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics hundreds of thousands of employees suffer non-fatal workplace injuries each year. Others face more serious or fatal incidents. Accidents at work can sometimes be a result of bad luck. However, in many cases they are completely preventable. To maintain a safe working environment, employers are required by law to manage health and security risks. In the event of an accident, and if you are injured on the job, you could be entitled to file for workers’ compensation.
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The first step in preventing workplace injuries is to be aware of the hazards that may exist. We discuss below the 10 most common injuries at work and what you should do if one occurs.
What is considered a workplace injury?
The range of workplace injuries is wide. A workplace injury can be anything from a trip on an uneven floor to serious machinery accidents. Employers in the U.S. must follow Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations (OSHA) to protect their employees. Employees may be entitled to compensation if an employer’s negligence causes an accident or illness that results in injury or sickness.
Common workplace injuries
The 10 most common workplace injuries in the United States and their typical causes are listed below:
1. Slips, trips, and falls
The most common workplace accident is a slip, trip, or fall. These accidents can occur in any environment where there are slippery surfaces, such as oil spills or debris. Falls from ladders and scaffolding are especially dangerous, as they can cause serious or fatal injuries. Most often, these incidents occur on construction sites. However, they can happen anywhere.
2. Falling Objects
When items are not properly stored or secured, they can fall and cause injuries. Even light items can be dangerous if dropped at a high height. Unsecured objects, such as filing cabinets with heavy tops, can be dangerous in an office setting, especially if they are prone to tipping, because the items stored on their upper drawers may be very heavy.
3. Handling, lifting, or carrying
Injuries such as muscle tears, back strains or neck strains can be caused by improper lifting techniques. Warehouses are not the only place where these injuries can occur. Any job that requires lifting without the proper training or equipment is at risk.
4. Workplace Violence
Conflicts between coworkers may escalate and lead to physical or verbal altercations resulting in injury. These situations can be exacerbated by high-stress work environments or unresolved conflict.
5. Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
RSIs are common among workers who do repetitive tasks such as typing, or assembling products. Over time, repetitive movements can cause pain, stiffness and weakness in the hands, wrists or other areas. Specially at risk are office workers, hairdressers and factory workers.
6. Exposure to loud noises
Tinnitus and permanent hearing damage can be caused by long-term exposure to loud noises, which is common in construction and manufacturing industries. To reduce these risks, ear protection is necessary.
7. Exposure to Toxic Fumes
In laboratories and manufacturing facilities, toxic fumes from hazardous chemicals can cause respiratory problems or irritation of the skin or eyes. In these environments, it is important to follow safety and ventilation protocols.
8. Burns
Burns at work can be caused by exposure to heat, chemicals or electricity. Although many burns are minor in nature, severe cases may cause long-term damage.
9. Accidents involving vehicles
Accidents involving vehicles are a risk for employees who drive in their jobs, such as delivery drivers or operators of forklifts. Fatigue, distractions or other hazards can cause these incidents.
10.Cuts and Lacerations
Sharp machinery or tools pose a risk in almost every workplace, including construction sites and offices. Minor cuts can lead to serious lacerations requiring stitches or infection.
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Employer Safety Obligations
Even though accidents can happen, employers are legally required to protect the health, safety and welfare of their employees. This includes:
- Risk assessments are conducted to identify and minimize potential hazards.
- Provide safety equipment such as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE);
- Offer training on safety procedures
- Maintenance of equipment to ensure that it is safe;
- Posting safety signs, such as warnings about hazardous materials or wet floors.
- Consult employees regarding health and safety concerns.
An injured worker could have a claim if an employer does not meet these obligations. An experienced attorney can determine if negligence was involved and what evidence would be needed to prove a claim.
Preventive Methods
Employers can protect their employees by taking several steps, including:
- Safety gear such as goggles, gloves and hearing protection is available.
- Establishing and enforcing safety operating procedures
- Marking clearly hazardous situations or areas;
- Training in lifting techniques and chemical safety protocols.
- Encourage regular breaks to avoid fatigue-related injuries
- It is important to address workplace tensions as soon as possible.
- Review and update risk assessments regularly.
Contact Bonardi & Uzdavinis
Our team of personal injury lawyers can help you get the compensation you are entitled to if you have been injured on the job. Call us to discuss your case.
Feel Free To Schedule A Consultation
Contact Bonardi & Uzdavinis without delay to arrange a FREE consultation.
