The workplace is one of the most common places for injuries to occur. According to research, one in five people are injured at work. Thousands of individuals are killed at work and millions suffer serious injuries at work. Injured individuals are generally able to recovery from a workplace injury; however, it isn’t uncommon for some workers to be partially or permanently disabled as a result of the injury. Research also suggests that there are a few particular types of injuries that occur more frequently at the workplace than others, which are as follows:
- Musculoskeletal Injuries – These are injuries that affect the neck, shoulders, back and limbs. As a general rule, these injuries are a direct result of overexertion, typing, lifting heavy objects, squatting, kneeling, awkward postures and other typical tasks and motions related to a job.
- Repetitive Motion Injuries – Probably one of the most common injuries related to repetitive motion in the workplace is carpal tunnel syndrome, although vision problems, back pain and strain muscles are common as well. Unfortunately, these are injuries that are not as obvious as others, but are very harmful in the end. As a general rule, this is covered by workers’ compensation; however, it is always recommended to seek assistance to be sure, such as at http://legalmedicalassistance.com/.
- Slip-and-fall Injuries – Whether from a small object on the floor or a puddle of liquid, slip-and-fall injuries are very common in the workplace. They can lead to severe back, shoulder and neck injuries and can often require surgery. These types of injuries can generally be avoided is debris is picked up quickly and spills are immediately cleaned.
- Machine Entanglement – Equipment in workplaces must be upheld to a certain standard. When it is not, employees are at risk of injury. When the proper precautions are not taken in the workplace, fingers, clothing and even hair may become entrapped in the machinery resulting in serious injury, or even death.
- Falling from Heights – This type of fall occurs when someone falls from an elevated height, such as from the roof, stairways, ladders, etc. In some cases, it can be from a slip-and-fall accident or even due to defective equipment.
Ensuring one is wearing the proper protective equipment and is trained properly can go a long way in reducing common workplace injuries. However, for those that have been injured at work, there are options available.
