Are you at risk of injuring yourself while performing your work duties? Whether you’re working from home or atop a building, your workload could result in an accident.
What types of injuries could happen at work? Are certain occupations more dangerous than others? Keep reading to get our list of the top five most common workplace injuries.
1. Slip and Falls
Slip and falls are the number one most common work injury. These accidents can happen due to a slippery surface or fall from a great height.
Here are a few injuries that could result from a work-related slip and fall:
- Sprains or fractures
- Broken bones
- Back or spinal cord injuries
- Head and brain injuries
- Death
The most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows fatal falls are at a 26-year high. Every occupation, even office workers, are susceptible to these safety mishaps.
2. Getting Struck By an Object
No one expects to get struck by a falling object while going about their day. That’s why it’s a shock these types of accidents are the most common office injury.
Getting struck by or against objects often results in significant injury. This is especially true when the object is moving machinery.
In some situations, a person may lose consciousness after getting hit. They could also suffer lacerations. Learning first aid before an accident happens is life-saving in these situations.
3. The Most Common Workplace Injuries: Overexertion Accidents
Who hasn’t pushed themselves past their limit at work? The competitive workplace often demands it. Despite that, it’s important to recognize this bad habit for what it is.
The National Safety Council estimates overexertion causes one of every three work-related accidents. Overexertion is more likely when tasks:
- Involve lifting
- Are repetitive
- Get performed in the outdoor heat
- Do not get broken up with frequent break periods
Overexertion can occur with any occupation. Even excessive typing can cause office injuries like Carpal Tunnel.
4. Automobile Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents occur every day across the globe, and many are work-related. Vehicles, trucks, and equipment all have the potential to cause serious injuries.
What causes work-related vehicle accidents? They’re usually a result of:
- Human error
- Overloading the truck
- Poor vehicle maintenance
- Failure to use safety precautions
Depending on the vehicle’s size and speed, accidents can be catastrophic.
5. Exposure to Excessive Noise and Fumes
Excessive noise and chemical fumes are both known hazards. If your job exposes you to these elements, then you should always wear protective gear.
The most common work injuries happen when workers or employers disregard safety rules.
Failing to protect yourself could cause hearing loss, vision impairment, or inhalation injuries.
Avoiding Work-Related Accidents
The most common workplace injuries all have one thing in common. Almost all are the result of negligence.
The best thing you can do to avoid an accident is to follow all the safety rules and procedures. If you’re an employer, then you need to invest in employee safety training.
Do you need employee training records or logs? Visit our training and coaching page to find all the documents for your business needs.
