According to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), over 5,000 workers died on the job in 2017. Workplace injuries happen every 7 seconds. With these alarming statistics, the more you know about common injuries and accidents that occur on the job, the better protected you can be. Regardless of your line of work, accidents are present -from construction workers and police officers to CEOs and chefs. Increase your chances of staying healthy on the job by discovering some of the most common injuries and how to avoid them.
Slips and Falls
This is likely the first workplace injury that comes to mind. Slips and falls are all too common on the job. Most slips and falls happen due to a wet, slippery surface. They’re common in restaurants, kitchens, and other areas where water is used on a tile floor. To avoid slips and falls, always be aware of your surroundings. Check the floor for water, puddles, or other slippery substances. This is especially true in a kitchen, where oil, butter, and other slick materials are used. Wearing slip-resistant footwear is a good way to protect against this type of injury. Sadly, most people that slip and fall at work incur serious injury. From concussions and sprains to herniated discs or broken bones, some people end up with long-term disability. If this describes you, DarrasLaw can help.
Muscle Strain
Does your job require you to lift heavy objects or twist and turn your body in compromising positions? If so, you’re at risk for muscle strain. Delivery drivers, postal workers, construction workers, and those working in a factory are most at risk. The best way to avoid muscle strain at work is to practice proper lifting techniques. These include lifting heavy objects using your legs, not your back. Don’t bend over at the waist, but instead, squat down and use the strength of your legs to stand straight up. This protects both your back and neck from overexerting itself. Practicing some light stretching before and after work can also help prevent unwanted injuries.
Cuts and Lacerations
Cuts don’t just happen in your kitchen at home. Any job that requires you to use sharp objects including knives, glass, or other tools, puts you in harm’s way. One of the biggest causes of cuts and lacerations at work is complacency. All too often, people become comfortable with the job they perform and their technique suffers. Take your time performing any job involving sharp objects. Never rush or work with dangerous objects while distracted. Wearing protective gloves and clothing, along with proper training, can also help keep you out of harm’s way.
Inhaling or Ingesting Toxic Chemicals
Some dangers on the job are ones that you can’t see at all. And they may not show signs of damage to your health until many years later. Inhaling or ingesting toxic fumes or chemicals are another common workplace casualty to be aware of. If you work near toxic chemicals, always wear protective gear. This includes appropriate gloves, goggles, clothing, and face masks. If chemicals make direct contact with your skin, you may suffer from irritation or redness and burning. Asbestos exposure is one of the leading causes of lung cancer on the job. Construction workers, firefighters, insulators, and factory workers are often most at risk for exposure to this toxic mineral.
The fact remains that going to work in today’s economy is a must. And while you can’t avoid punching the clock each day, you can take steps to protect your health and wellbeing while on the job. Wearing the proper safety equipment, paying close attention to your surroundings, and staying up to date on the most recent training can all reduce your chances of being injured and out of work.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
