The Bureau of Labor Statistics has reported a staggering total of 4,628 fatal injuries in the major private industry sector of the U.S. in 2012, and nearly 3.0 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses that year. Injuries in the workplace generally depend on the type of industry you work in, but regardless of your trade or job title, accidents that are often avoidable are putting employees out of work in the doctor’s office, and in the worst cases, causing wrongful death and tragedy.
Most of the 10 most common injuries on the job can happen to anyone at any time. It’s not only the responsibility of the employer to provide a safe work environment; employees must also show responsibility to themselves and their coworkers when they’re on the job.
To increase awareness, here is a list of are the most common workplace injuries as reported by top insurance companies in the United States.
Overexertion Injuries
Overexertion of an employee’s body is the number one cause for workplace injuries. These injures happen after excessive and heavy lifting, pulling, carrying, throwing, or pushing. Jobs in several industries have positions that require this kind of work. Believe it or not, even a small task like carrying copy paper in the office can cause back pain, leg pain, arm pain, and other straining injuries. Don’t be the tough guy and do it all yourself. Ask for help if something is too heavy to handle alone.
Slipping and Tripping Work Injuries
Several workplace injuries can happen due to slipping and falling. An employee can trip over something or slip on something spilled on the floor that wasn’t cleaned up right away. Bad weather is another common cause of this type of work injury. Employees need to pay attention to what is going on around them and follow safety guidelines set by the employers. Employees must make sure spills are cleaned up right away and no debris is left on the floor for people to trip over. Employers should do their part to protect employees and avoid cause for premise liability lawsuits by providing a safe work environment.
Falling From High Places
Falling from a high place can happen because of a slip and fall or because of faulty equipment. Correct protective gear is necessary to prevent serious injuries. The worksite needs to be secure and checked regularly for structure and equipment safety. If you are reaching for something high up, get a ladder and ask someone to spot you. Do not stand on boxes or other objects.
Reaction Injuries
This kind of injury happens when an employee reacts to a situation by jumping out of the way or pulling away quickly when they are startled. These accidents cause muscle injuries, trauma to the body, and other medical issues. It’s hard to prevent such things, but it’s important for everyone to pay attention to their surroundings.
Work Injuries Caused by Falling Objects
This happens when someone drops something or something falls from a shelf. Your head and feet can be injured by falling objects. Hard hats and steel-toed work shoes can protect your head and feet. Always be aware of your surroundings.
Work Injuries Caused by Walking Into Something
This can happen at home and at work. You’re walking from one work station to another and you bump into a table or piece of equipment. This can affect your head, knees, neck and feet. Focus on keeping your work environment hazard free.
Vehicle Accidents
Employees who drive company vehicles on the clock are sometimes injured in an auto accident. Some of these accidents can be fatal. Another driver can hit you or weather conditions can cause an accident. Use caution when driving and follow company policy. Don’t use your cell phone or participate in other distractions while driving.
Getting Tangled in Equipment
Employees that work around or use heavy equipment are subject to getting caught in the moving parts of that equipment. Clothes, shoe strings, fingers, and hair are common items that can get tangled in equipment. Attention to personal details is essential to prevent these accidents.
Repetitive Motion Injuries
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is the most common repetitive motion injury. It is caused by continuous repeated motions performed on the job. Factory workers and typists are more likely to suffer from this. Wrist braces and proper posture can help prevent this injury.
If you have been injured on the job and are thinking about filing a workers compensation lawsuit, it is best to consult an experienced attorney.