You shouldn’t have to worry about suffering an injury at work, especially if you don’t work in a profession that is inherently dangerous (construction and emergency services come to mind). However, the sad reality is that accidents happen and workers suffer injuries on the job for one reason or another. Most workplace injuries are preventable, especially if people take the time to practice safe operations. Today, we will explore five preventable workplace injuries so you can ensure you return home safe and sound.
Work Burnout
Employees around the globe suffer from burnout because of their jobs every year. Whether they refuse to use personal time, vacation days, or take advantage of company perks, burnout is caused by a variety of factors. When an employee is feeling burnt out, they will experience a decrease in productivity and an impediment on their own development.
To prevent burnout at work, you should take advantage of days off provided by your employer, use up your sick time, and use company perks. Many employers offer incentives for employees such as spa days, gift cards to restaurants, and other rewards. Use these incentives when you earn them to help relax and get rid of stress.
Slips, Trips, and Falls
It might not be possible to completely prevent slips, trips, and falls, but these workplace injuries shouldn’t be commonplace at your office or job site. Slips, trips, and falls can lead to serious injuries and even death. These incidents can easily be preventable. Workers should do the following to them:
- Wear the proper shoes for your job or workplace.
- Do not jump off of a ladder or elevated platform.
- Make sure all cords are taped to the ground or hidden underneath carpeting.
- Check stairs for missing parts or broken areas.
- Report spills and post a wet floor sign immediately.
Overexertion Injuries
Employees often suffer overexertion injuries no matter the profession in which they work. For example, repeatedly lifting boxes or loading trucks can lead to arm, shoulder, and back injuries. Carpal tunnel syndrome can develop if you type on a computer five days per week for multiple hours per day. Overexertion injuries can be prevented by limiting repetitive movements and properly lifting items.
Injuries Caused by Moving Objects
If you work on a construction site, a car lot, or for a delivery company, you will be around moving vehicles more often than not. Injuries caused by moving objects are completely preventable. If you are working on foot near moving vehicles, make sure you have on reflective clothing, have a flashlight when working at night, and make eye contact with the driver of the vehicle approaching you. Never walk behind a vehicle, even if it isn’t in reverse.
Falls From Heights
Working high above the ground is not just for people who work in construction. Librarians might have to climb ladders to access the shelves in the library, while roofers have to climb to the top of homes to replace roofing materials. Suffering a fall from heights can lead to paralysis and death. If you work high above the ground (on scaffolding, ladders, or in lifts) make sure you wear the correct shoes, have a harness on, and keep all items you can trip on out of your path.
Going to work each day shouldn’t be dangerous. However, there are some hazards out there that simply can’t be avoided, especially if you can’t see them. One such hazard is asbestos. If your workplace hasn’t been inspected for asbestos, you won’t know that it’s present. If workplaces had been tested for asbestos early and had it removed, many illnesses caused by this hazard could have been prevented. The bottom line here is that most workplace injuries are preventable. You just need to take matters into your own hands and follow all safety procedures where you work.