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Email UsThe National Safety Council has complied a list of top workers’ compensation injuries, as well as steps employers can take to reduce these injuries in the workplace. Understanding and recognizing risks, and taking action to reduce these risks, makes the workplace safer for everyone.
Overexertion Injuries
Overexertion injuries can occur when people take on a task larger than they can handle. They can also occur when people lift improperly, or misuse equipment. In fact, overexertion due to pulling, pushing, holding, lifting, carrying, and throwing activities account for more than 13 billion dollars in workers’ compensation costs each year. Employers can reduce these types of injuries by providing proper training on how to handle heavy equipment. Additionally, employees should be given sufficient breaks, to allow the body to recover rather than subject their workers to the possibility of overexertion.
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slips, trips and falls can cause a variety of injuries, including muscle pulls, muscle strains, broken bones, and other body trauma, as well as other medical issues. Employers should:
- use non-slip rugs
- employ caution signs when conditions are slippery (such as on a rainy day, when water may be carried into the lobby, or when a floor is freshly mopped)
- identify uneven areas of the flor
- clear walkways from clutter
- make certain cords and wires are not tripping hazards
- implement policies for the speedy clean up of spills
Falls from Heights
Separate and apart from falls from trips and slips, falling from heights is a common source of worker injury. Employees fall from improperly constructed scaffolding, off roofs, through holes, and off laders. Sometimes this is attributable to employee misconduct, however, it is often attributable to poor or non-existent fall protection equipment. Employers should provide proper personal protection gear and train employees how to use it. They should also install guard rails and other devices to protect employees.
Injuries from Falling Objects
Falling objects commonly lead to head injuries, however, this is not the only injury an employee may incur. In some cases, the object falls from a shelf. However, in other cases, a person may drop something. ON a construction site, for example, a dropped object could cause significant injuries, particularly if dropped from several floors above. Employers should make certain materials are stored in a secure manner. On construction sites and other areas where object might drop from a significant distance, signage is a must. Additionally, workers should be provided with proper personal protection equipment.
Injured on the Job?
If you are injured on the job, the legal team at Rosner Law Offices, P.C. can help. We offer free consultations, so there is no cost to you to meet with us to discuss your situation. We work with employees to ensure they recover for their past and future medical bills, lost wages, and lost overtime. Call the office today at (856) 502-1655 to discuss your case today.