Even in the modern day with all of the safety videos and training, employees still get hurt on the job. This loss of work is a detriment to both the employer and the employee, and there are some very common injuries that don’t require much effort to avoid with the proper know-how.
Falling
Falling is by far one of the most common reported workplace injuries, and also easily one of the most avoidable. When working on a roof or scaffolding ensure that both you and your employer are submitting to safety guidelines. If you’re doing work on a roof make sure you’re using a full-body harness and that you are connected to a lifeline. It may not seem like the “coolest” idea, but it’s a lot better to be safe than end up injuring yourself and causing a loss of work. Make sure the scaffolding that you’re working with has rails, and if it’s made out of wood instead of metal it is held to a scaffolding standard.
If you are not sure if the employer you’re working for has insured you under a workers’ compensation, discuss this with them. In cases where an employer does not have you covered by workers compensation and you injure yourself, you may not be protected from loss of wages and medical bills. The law experts from https://www.stewartlawoffices.net/workers-compensation-lawyer/ state that most employers are required to have workers compensation insurance by law. You may be entitled to damages by your employer if they do not have you properly insured, and in these cases you should speak to a legal representative.
Carpal Tunnel
Avoiding repetitive motions can be difficult at times, especially when you’re working at a desk. These repeated movements can lead to carpal tunnel and structural damage over time. If you’re required to use a keyboard and mouse, use a pad that slightly elevates your wrist to reduce pressure on your tendons. Keyboards should be slightly elevated in the back and you may want to use a wrist-rest for these as well.
If you’re experiencing the development of carpal tunnel, speak to your physician and acquire a doctor’s note. Inform your employer that you may need to complete work under another position if possible. By rotating the tasks that you’re doing, you’ll decrease the likelihood of worsening any tendon or joint related damages.
Occupational Hazards
In industries involving a large amount of noise, your hearing can become damaged eventually. Make sure your employer is offering you ear protection if you work in an industry that meets the threshold for noise. You’ll also want to safeguard yourself by wearing ear protection to prevent any hearing loss. If you are working in an industry that utilizes certain toxic chemicals you’ll want to employ your personal protective equipment. Even if the danger is not immediate, some chemicals are carcinogenic and their detriment may not make itself known for years. Read all safety data sheets in regards to the chemicals that you are working with, so you know what to do if a health-related incidence happens.
Vehicular Hazards
There are many industries that require working closely with vehicles and employees on foot. Construction is an example of such a kind of industry and you’ll want to make sure you’re making eye contact at all times with the drivers so they know your whereabouts. Don’t travel too close to the vehicles and always stay within the drivers line of vision. Report any instances of impaired work to your employer if an individual is attempting to operate a vehicle while impaired.
Your personal relationship with a person isn’t worth them potentially hurting, or fatally hurting someone. If you have not received proper training when it comes to operating a particular vehicle, you may refuse work if you feel it is unsafe for you to operate. Safety comes first, and when it comes to vehicles a small bump could turn into a fatal accident.
Strain and Sprain Injuries
Injuries revolving around physical exertion can lead to strains and sprains in your musculoskeletal structure. As annoying as those training videos telling you to “lift with your legs” and practice proper body mechanics are, they are a valid way to avoid developing this injury. Don’t be afraid to speak up for yourself if you’re afraid you’re going to overexert yourself, in most cases your employer doesn’t like the idea of you getting hurt on the job either. Practice proper body mechanics and don’t push yourself so hard you hurt yourself just for work. It’s hard to come back from these kinds of injuries and the loss of wages won’t be worth it to you in the long run.
Always use personal protective gear, and safety equipment whenever you’re working from a height. Do your best to rotate activities if you’re worried about developing carpal tunnel, and use ergonomic equipment when available. Protect yourself from the occupational hazards found within your workplace, and practice the same safety while driving with work vehicles. Proper body mechanics are tedious, but they’re a sure way to save yourself from lost wages. Keep these methods of avoiding injuries in mind, and be sure to be safe at work!