Common workplace injuries and how to prepare for them

A safe and secure work environment is essential for both employees and employers. However, accidents can still occur. Being prepared for common workplace injuries before they occur is crucial. By understanding these potential risks and taking proactive measures, you can create a safer workplace and minimize the impact of injuries.

What are common injuries in the workplace?

Trips, Slips, and falls

According to the NSC, 33% of nonfatal injuries in 2020 resulted from falls. Slips and falls are a huge liability for businesses but are easily avoidable. These accidents can often happen from wet or uneven surfaces, inadequate lighting, or lack of proper safety measures.

Implement safety measures like maintaining cleanliness, ensuring adequate lighting, and using floor mats to prevent injuries and protect floors. These practices not only safeguard customers and employees from slips and falls but also preserve the integrity of the floor finishes.

Cuts and Lacerations

From paper to box cutters to sharp tools, there are endless ways employees could end up with cuts. Proper equipment and safety training can prevent unnecessary incidents from happening. Consider mandating the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection. Wildman can help make sure your first aid supplies are stocked and accessible.

Burns and Chemical Exposure

Workplaces that deal with hazardous substances or have hot surfaces can pose a risk of burns and chemical exposures. It is crucial to provide employees with appropriate training on handling chemicals safely.

Additionally, proper storage and labeling procedures should be implemented. Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and goggles, should also be provided. Lastly, emergency protocols must be in place for dealing with chemical spills or accidents.

Strains and Sprains

Repetitive processes can have a taxing effect on the body. Doing the same movement all day, every day of the week can cause injury to those muscles. Muscle strains and sprains often occur due to lifting heavy objects, poor posture, repetitive movements, or inadequate ergonomics.
Breaks and irregular movement can help prevent these injuries. Provide comprehensive training to employees on proper lifting techniques, encourage the use of ergonomic workstations, and incorporate anti-fatigue mats. Additionally, establish policies that promote regular rest and breaks to prevent strains.

How do you prevent workplace injuries?

With training and strategic planning, a majority of workplace injuries can be prevented. By taking proactive measures, you and your employees can create a workplace that’s clean and safe.

Consider the following efforts: 

• Conduct a risk assessment: 
  • Regularly assess the workplace for potential hazards and identify areas that pose risks to employee safety. This helps in understanding the specific risks present and taking appropriate preventive measures.
• Proper uniforms and jackets: 
  • Supplying employees with enhanced visibility or hi-visibility uniforms can help keep them seen. Being seen is being safe!
• Incorporate safety and equipment training:
  • Regular comprehensive training on equipment prepares your employees for emergencies or injuries. Clearly marked AEDs and first aid cabinets reduce search time in both minor cut incidents and life-threatening situations. Learn more about why red cabinets are important in the workplace.
• Provide protective gear:
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) options like safety glasses, gloves, and hearing protection are available to keep employees protected.

Workplace safety is a collective responsibility. By proactively preparing for common workplace injuries and fostering a culture of safety, we can significantly reduce the occurrence of accidents and protect the well-being of employees.

Simply ordering a first aid kit on Amazon might not do the trick for your team. Take the first step today by connecting with a Wildman representative and receiving a free business evaluation for your first aid and safety measures. Together, let’s create a safer work environment where employees are safe to thrive.