All jobs carry certain inherent dangers, however slight, but the vast majority of workplace accidents are preventable. How safe is your job site or office? Read on to learn the top five preventable accidents in the workplace.
1. Injuries due to overexertion. Activities like lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling and throwing cost roughly $13.6 billion worth of benefits each year. Employers can reduce these risks by training their workers to lift using their legs instead of their backs, using proper equipment and lean practices. Making sure employees take sufficient breaks can also mitigate overexertion.
2. Tripping or slipping. Wet or cluttered floors and surfaces can lead to trips and slip-and-falls that injure muscles and other body parts. Strategic use of non-slip rugs by exits and entrances and signage that indicates when wet or slippery conditions are present are two possible solutions to the problem, as well as ensuring all spills are promptly cleaned up.
3. Falls from elevated areas. Any above-ground area like ladders, scaffolds, stairs or roofs have the potential to contribute to a worker’s fall. Making sure all employees use their personal protection gear and have proper fall safety training is essential.
4. Reaction injuries. Even slips that don’t result in falls can tear muscles, tendons and ligaments. Outside areas that accumulate snow or ice have the potential to cause injuries to workers. Keep paths clear and work areas uncluttered.
5. Injuries from falling objects. These types of injuries can be life-threatening if heavy objects come crashing down on the head and upper extremities of workers. Not stacking pallets and other materials too high can reduce risks.
If you get injured in an unsafe workplace, you’re entitled to file for compensation in Omaha. Your employer doesn’t even have to be at fault in order for you to successfully collect benefits. If you’re denied, seek legal guidance about filing an appeal.