Workplace safety is a top concern for both employers and employees, as occupational injuries are common and often avoidable. Shockingly, in 2020 alone, nearly 18% of nonfatal work injuries resulted in days away from work because of slips, trips, and falls.
This blog post aims to provide insights into the most common types of workplace injuries and practical strategies you can implement to prevent them. Ready? Let’s start building a safer environment at your place of work!
The Most Common Occupational Injuries
Back and Neck Injuries from Heavy Lifting
Heavy lifting at work is a prevalent cause of back and neck injuries. Many employees, in fields ranging from construction to retail, regularly lift heavy supplies or deliveries. Unfortunately, this places an enormous strain on the skeletal system’s weakest areas – the back and neck.
Without proper training in safe lifting techniques, workers often use incorrect posture that exacerbates this strain. The result can be severe pain or injury, leading to lost workdays.
Overexertion injuries like these make up a significant percentage of nonfatal occupational mishaps reported each year. Therefore, it is essential for employees to receive adequate training in correct lifting procedures and for employers to facilitate opportunities for regular rest breaks during physically demanding tasks.
Strains and Sprains from Repetitive Movements
Strains and sprains from repetitive movements are common workplace injuries that occur because of continuous and repetitive motions. These types of injuries often affect workers who perform tasks that involve repetitive actions, such as typing on a keyboard or operating machinery.
The strain and stress placed on muscles, tendons, and ligaments can lead to painful strains and sprains. These injuries can cause discomfort, limited mobility, and decreased productivity for affected workers.
Slips and Falls from Wet or Uneven Surfaces
Workers can easily lose balance when walking on wet floors or uneven ground, leading to serious accidents. These incidents can result in sprained ankles, broken bones, or even head injuries if the individual hits their head upon falling.
It’s important for employers to address potential hazards by maintaining dry floors and ensuring even surfaces throughout the workplace. By implementing proper signage and providing slip-resistant footwear options, the risk of these accidents can be significantly reduced.
Head and Brain Injuries from Falling Objects
Falling objects in the workplace can lead to serious head and brain injuries. These injuries occur when workers are struck by items that are dropped or accidentally knocked over. Head injuries can range from concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries, which may result in long-term complications.
It is crucial for employers to implement safety measures, such as providing protective headgear and securing objects properly, to prevent these types of accidents. Regular training on proper handling and storage of materials can also help reduce the risk of head and brain injuries in the workplace.
Prevention and Treatment of Occupational Injuries
Proper Lifting Techniques and Use of Equipment
To prevent back and neck injuries caused by heavy lifting, it is crucial to use proper lifting techniques and equipment. This includes bending the knees and using leg muscles instead of the back to lift objects. Additionally, workers should avoid twisting their bodies while lifting and maintain a neutral spine position. Using mechanical aids such as forklifts, dollies, or carts can also help reduce the strain on the body when moving heavy supplies or deliveries.
By practicing safe lifting techniques and utilizing appropriate equipment, employees can significantly decrease their risk of experiencing debilitating back or neck strains on the job.
Ergonomic Adjustments in the Workplace
Employers can promote workplace safety and reduce the risk of occupational injuries by implementing ergonomic adjustments. These adjustments involve modifying workstations, equipment, and procedures to accommodate the needs of employees and minimize physical strain.
For example, providing adjustable desks and chairs can help maintain proper posture and prevent back or neck injuries. Additionally, using ergonomically designed tools or equipment can reduce the risk of repetitive stress injuries.
Regular Safety Training for Employees
Regular safety training is crucial for preventing workplace injuries. Providing employees with proper safety training allows employers to ensure that workers are equipped with the knowledge and skills to identify potential hazards and take appropriate preventive measures.
Safety training sessions cover a wide range of topics, including proper lifting techniques, safe use of equipment, and emergency response procedures. These trainings not only help reduce the risk of common workplace injuries but also promote a culture of safety within the organization.
Prompt Treatment for Injuries to Prevent Further Damage
Prompt treatment for injuries is crucial to prevent further damage and promote faster recovery. When an injury occurs in the workplace, it is important for employees to seek immediate medical attention.
This can help doctors identify the extent of the injury and ensure they provide appropriate treatment. Timely intervention can also prevent complications or long-term consequences associated with untreated injuries.
Research has shown that delays in receiving medical care for work-related injuries often result in longer recovery times and increased healthcare costs. Additionally, by addressing injuries immediately after they occur, employers can implement measures to prevent similar incidents from happening again in the future.
Physical Therapy, Chiropractic Care, and Rehabilitation for Recovery
Physical therapy, chiropractic care and rehabilitation play a crucial role in the recovery process after a work-related injury. These treatments help injured workers regain their strength, mobility, and functionality through targeted exercises and techniques.
With the guidance of trained therapists or chiropractors, individuals can improve muscle strength, increase range of motion, and reduce pain. Physical therapy also focuses on preventing future injuries by teaching proper body mechanics and ergonomic principles.
Stay Safe In The Workplace!
In conclusion, slips and falls, back and neck injuries from heavy lifting, strains and sprains from repetitive movements, cuts and lacerations from sharp objects, and head and brain injuries from falling objects are the most common occupational injuries.
If you’re suffering from an occupational injury or needing advice to prevent one, visit Pinnacle Chiropractic today!