In this article, we cover the four most common injuries obtained in the workplace.
Though they range in levels of seriousness and severity, any accident in the workplace can have a hugely negative impact on not only the individual but also their family.
As with many accidents – if procedures are present and adhered to, most of them can be avoided. In the even of an accident occurring though, it is very important to follow the correct procedure in first aid, reporting and documenting.
Here are the top four injuries in the workplace:
1) Lacerations and scars
According to recent statistics, cuts to the hand and finger are the two most common injuries, with scarring not being too far behind.
Such injuries can occur in any environment that has flammable or sharp objects, or where exposure to chemicals is possible. Such workplaces prone to the above are kitchens, production lines, construction sites and factories.
There are strict legal requirements imposed upon employers in order to minimise the risk of harm and injury in the form of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations.
It is required that companies ensure that they fully understand the risks posed by all substances. They are then required to provide adequate training and supply those at risk of exposure with the correct protective equipment and clothing.
2) Dislocations
Dislocations can occur when working from height, by tripping on defective flooring (loose steps, wires, pot holes and loose paving stones).
Any ladders should be operated on level surfaces with handrails where possible. Workers should be trained on the ‘three point of contact rule’ to ensure that they are situated as safely as possible.
Where larger heights are concerned, fall restrain mechanisms should be supplied and correct planning should be carried out for each specific task when working from height to prevent further potential risk from harm.
where trips and slips are concerned, regular checks should be implemented on areas and hazards should be cordoned off until issues are resolved. Imperfections should be reported and all staff should remain vigilant when considering potential new hazards.
3) Back injuries
The back is a part of the body under constant wear, so injury can occur naturally. Where lifting, pulling and pushing occur excessively as a part of a job role though, such continual wear and tear can also lead to injury.
Employers have an obligation to prevent manual handling requirements where necessary, though of course this is often not possible in delivery and warehouse roles.
When manual handling is required, the employer should be minimising the risk of harm through training and requirement of correct lifting techniques. Equipment that reduces the load, such as conveyor belts, forklift trucks or tail lifts should also be available where possible.
4) Foot Injuries
Vehicle strikes are a commonly occurring cause of foot injury in the workplace, with warehouse staff being most at risk due to large moving vehicles, such as fork lift trucks.
It is therefore the responsibility of the employer to ensure that there is satisfactory separation between pedestrian walkways and vehicle routes. Employees must also be sufficiently licensed and trained to operate their respective vehicles safely, with proper observation of surroundings and ensuring that workers nearby are aware of their presence.
Next steps:
You may be entitled to compensation for your injury if your employer has not implemented and carried out correct safety procedures.
If are unfortunate enough to suffer a workplace injury and your employer was to blame for the above reason, please contact a member of our team and they will advise you if you have grounds to make a claim.
Further reading
For some further information about accidents at work, check out this page.
How do I get in touch?
Contact our team today on 0113 306 9039, and we will advise you on whether or not your case is likely to succeed.
