According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, in 2018 there were two and a half million workplace injuries in the United States that ended in visits to the emergency room. Getting injured on the job can be much more common than you think.
Would you like to know how to avoid being hurt while at your workplace? Here are some of the most prevalent types of workplace accidents and injuries, and tips to avoid ending up in the hospital.
1. Slipping on Wet Surfaces
We have all seen the classic signs warning both customers and employees of slippery surfaces. However, slip and fall injuries are still one of the most common types of accidents that you can suffer from while on the job. They often cause back or tailbone injuries.
You can easily avoid most of the high-risk situations for slipping by keeping the floors clean and tidy, or making use of bright signs when you cannot immediately clean up a spill. You can also invest in non-slip sneakers if your job allows it.
2. Falling From Ladders
If you work in an industry that requires regular use of ladders, then you should know how to keep yourself safe when climbing one. Falling from a ladder can result in serious injuries that put you out of work for long periods of time.
When you use a ladder on the job, you should try to get a partner to watch you if possible. That way, you can have someone there to steady the ladder in case it wobbles or help you if you are in danger of falling for any reason.
3. Being Hit With Objects
In workplaces that involve heavy materials or construction zones, falling objects are a common occurrence. Unfortunately, they also cause thousands of injuries every year, and can even result in head trauma and permanent damage.
You should be taking steps every day to prevent the full impact of objects, like wearing a hardhat and protective eyewear at all times when you are on-site. You should also establish good communication with those around you so that you can warn one another about potential hazards.
4. Machinery Errors
Working around machines means that you should be more cautious to avoid injuries at work. These types of accidents can result in all types of problems, so you should always make an effort to learn more about the machines to prevent mishaps.
To avoid machinery failures that can cause accidents, you should know emergency protocols for all machinery that you use on the job. Always wear protective equipment when you operate a machine, like gloves or appropriate eyewear.
You Can Prevent Workplace Accidents and Injuries
Although workplace accidents and injuries may seem unavoidable, you do not have to be more at risk for harming yourself while at your job. With these tricks, you can feel much safer at work.
Want to know more about how to deal with all types of injuries and health problems? Click on the Health section of our blog for all the information that you will need.
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