Have you ever been injured at work?
If not, you’re lucky. Workplace injuries are all too common, especially in industrial environments like factories and construction sites. CBS News reports that a workplace injury happens every 7 seconds in the U.S.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets standards that all workplaces have to follow to keep their employees safe. These standards help them avoid liability in case of an accident too. Unfortunately, these standards are not followed by every employer. In addition to an employer being a fault, sometimes freak accidents happen even when everyone is exercising caution.
Keep reading to learn more about the most common workplace injuries, how to prevent them, and what to do if you get hurt at work.
The Most Common Workplace Injuries
Workplace injuries happen. But being aware of things that commonly cause injury can help make every workplace a little bit safer. If you’re not sure what the most common workplace injuries are, here are 4 of the biggest ones to look out for:
1. Overexertion
Overexertion injuries are the most common type of workplace injuries. These injuries involve lifting, pulling, pushing, carrying, or holding more weight that your body is capable of handling. These injuries can be brutal and cause permanent damage to your body.
To avoid overexerting yourself on the job, make sure you’re never lifting, carrying, or holding more than you know you’re capable of. If your employer pushes you too hard, they could be in violation of OSHA standards.
2. Slipping, Tripping, and Falling
Slips, trips, and falls are 3 more ways people are injured on the job. To avoid injury in this way, always watch where you’re going at work. If you notice an object isn’t where it should be, move it out of the way or report it. Ladders and scaffolding are particularly dangerous. Use extra caution with these pieces of equipment.
3. Falling Objects or Equipment
Besides falling and injuring yourself, you can also be injured by a piece of equipment falling and striking you. Falling objects can cause injury and even death.
To avoid a tragedy, check your worksite and make sure that heavy objects are being stored close to the ground. You should also always be wearing proper protective gear. If something happens while you aren’t wearing a hard hat or other gear, your employer might not be responsible for injuries.
4. Vehicle or Equipment Injuries
If you operate heavy machinery in your job, you’re at higher risk of being injured (or injuring another worker) on the job. Make sure you’re always following proper protocol when operating the equipment. Check that the area is clear before you start driving and be sure that everyone knows what is going on at the worksite at all times. Catching someone off guard is how serious injuries happen.
Have You Been Injured at Work?
Have you been a victim of one of the most common workplace injuries? It’s crucial that you know your rights. You might be entitled to compensation from your employer and insurance company, especially if you’re not able to keep working.
A personal injury attorney can help you with the important next steps. Contact Kastl Law today and schedule a free consultation with one of our work injury experts. We’ll help you navigate through the legal system and get the compensation that you deserve.