No matter your occupation, safety on the job should always be a top priority. Some lines of work are more dangerous than others, but certain workplace injuries are common to many occupations. Whether you are sitting behind a desk or working the line, think about on-the-job safety and how you can remain injury-free on the job. If you are injured at work, it is important to be aware of your legal rights.
Workplace Injuries Are Common
People spend a lot of time at work, and people—being people—get distracted, rushed, tired (and a bunch of other things) on the job. Accidents happen, and the workplace is something of an accident petri dish—it often combines long hours, less-than-perfect working conditions, and warring priorities. A key element to reducing on-the-job injuries is fostering safer practices and working conditions.
Several workplace accidents that consistently rank at the top of the list:
- Overexertion – Overexertion injuries are not only the most common, but also the costliest. They are often caused by pulling, pushing, lifting, carrying, holding, or throwing heavy or awkward objects at work. Incorporating ergonomic equipment, appropriate safety gear, safe-lifting practices, and physical training can all help minimize these injuries.
- Slips and Falls – Slip and fall accidents are often caused by unsafe conditions that go unnoticed, such as puddled water or collected debris in walkways or work areas. Maintaining careful grounds checks and routine cleaning can help.
- Falls from Elevations – Falls from elevations are extremely dangerous, and often involve tall machinery, roofs, ladders, or scaffolding. Ongoing safety training and appropriate safety gear are critical to reducing these dangerous accidents.
- Falling Objects – Falling objects are also responsible for some very serious accidents, and reducing their occurrence requires vigilance at work and designated hard-hat zones.
- Repetitive Motion – Repetitive motion injuries build with time and can be caused by movements as innocuous as typing at a computer for long hours. Observing healthy habits in the office, incorporating ergonomic furniture, and maintaining a healthy posture can help ward off these sleeper injuries.
- Motor Vehicles – If you drive on the job, motor vehicle accidents can be workplace injuries. Ongoing safety training is critical, as is adherence to all traffic laws.
- Machines – Injuries caused by machine accidents can be exceedingly dangerous—and they’re not uncommon. Someone can be severely injured if they get caught in a machine. Education, safety training, safety protocols, safety checks, and the incorporation of regular work breaks can all help keep your workplace safer.
If You Suffered an Injury on the Job, Contact a Workers’ Comp Attorney Today
If you or someone you care about has suffered an injury on the job, you need the skilled guidance of an expert workers’ compensation attorney. The Richmond, Virginia, legal team of Emroch & Kilduff is here to help you recover the benefits to which you’re entitled. We have the experience and expertise to guide your claim toward its best resolution. For skilled legal counsel, contact or call us at (804) 358-1568 for an initial consultation today.