Understanding Common Workplace Injuries
Workplace injuries are a common occurrence in any occupation. High-risk jobs are not the only kinds of jobs that put an employee at risk of workplace injuries. And most often, workplace injuries happen when you least expect them.
Workplace injuries may result in many difficulties, including lost wages, medical bills, and permanent or temporary disability.
Common Workplace Injuries
According to the National Safety Council, there is a workplace injury every seven seconds. The most common kinds of injuries keeping workers from being able to work are:
- Sprains, strains, or tears;
- Soreness or pain; and
- Cuts, lacerations, or punctures.
These injuries are typically a result of the top three common workplace injuries.
1. Overexertion
Overexertion accounts for approximately 34% of work-related injuries. Employees that run the risk of overexertion are typically those in occupations requiring physical work.
Overexertion occurs with frequent lifting or lowering and repetitive motions. To prevent overexertion, it is recommended that you avoid bending, reaching, or twisting when lifting heavy objects. Taking short breaks while working also gives your body a chance to rest.
2. Contact with Objects and Equipment
Work equipment is the cause of 26% of workplace injuries. These injuries occur when you are struck by equipment, caught in equipment, or hit, caught, or crushed in collapsing structure, equipment, or material. It is crucial to use caution when using or surrounded by equipment at work.
To prevent work accidents with equipment, it is best to store heavy objects on or close to the floor, be fully aware of moving equipment or parts in your work area, and wear the proper protective gear.
3. Slips, Trips, and Falls
This category accounts for about 26% of workplace injuries. Slips and trips can be very common on the job, whether it be on uneven or wet flooring or unnoticed objects on the ground. Falls may also occur if your work requires you to be at a height or you frequently use stairs or ladders.
To attempt to prevent these kinds of accidents, it is best to try to place the base of ladders on solid, even surfaces, practice good housekeeping in the workspace, and inspect any climbing equipment before use.
Occupations with the Largest Number of Workplace Injuries
Common workplace injuries occur the most within the following occupations:
- Service (firefighters and police);
- Transportation/shipping;
- Manufacturing/production;
- Installation, maintenance, and repair; and
- Construction.
These occupations are the most likely to have employees suffer workplace injuries due to the nature of their work.
When to Contact a Workers’ Compensation Attorney
Common workplace injuries happen all too often, and many of them can be prevented.
Using care and caution while working can help you, and those around you, avoid work-related injuries.
While most workplace injuries can be prevented, they are a widespread occurrence.
Should you be injured in a workplace accident, a workplace injury lawyer is an excellent resource for help and guidance.
Our team at Criminal Defense Attorney & Workers Compensation Law Offices of Arechigo & Stokka has decades of experience helping employees get the compensation they deserve after work-related accidents.
We make the client and their needs our top priority, working with them through a trying situation. Let us assess your case and see how we can help you. Contact us today and schedule your free consultation.
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