Being injured on the job is something that workers hope they never experience. No matter what industry you are in, you are at risk of being injured. This can come from an accident, but it is also possible that you will suffer one due to repetitive motion.
There are many types of incidents and injuries that can occur. Knowing some of the more common ones can help employers and employees to improve safety.
- Overexertion injuries: Trying to do your best at work is a good thing, but don't push yourself too hard. Activities like carrying, pushing, pulling and lifting can lead to injuries that are painful and costly.
- Slipping or tripping: Workplaces often have items on the floors and sometimes have wet floors. Workers who are exposed to these can suffer injuries if they slip or trip, even if they don't fall. Some injuries can come from attempting not to hit the ground.
- Falling objects or from heights: Working at heights above the ground or having items up there can lead to accidents. Workers need to have fall arrest devices and all objects placed above the ground should be secured to prevent incidents.
- Moving machines: Some businesses, such as factories, have moving equipment all around. Making sure the employees are trained on using these and that safe practices are in place can help to stop some injuries, such as workers being crushed by machines or being entangled.
- Workplace violence: It isn't easy to foresee workplace violence, but there must be a practice in place for monitoring suspicious activity and reporting it. A plan must also be set for what happens if there is an incident of this nature.
- Repetitive motion injuries: Workplace ergonomics are essential safety tools. This includes using movements and tools that help you to avoid muscle strain and odd body mechanics. These injuries are troublesome because the symptoms don't come on all at once. Instead, the start as nuisances and progressively get worse.
