Workplace accidents are the greatest fear of both employees and employers, since they can lead to injuries that disrupt lives and business operations. These accidents not only cause physical harm but also result in lost productivity, legal issues, and a strained work environment. The prevention of workplace accidents requires an understanding of their common causes and the taking of necessary steps to reduce them.
If the accident does occur, workers’ compensation lawyers are necessary to ensure that the injured employee gets the benefits they deserve. These skilled legal professionals will be able to navigate workers’ compensation claims, protect the rights of the employees, and support them through their recovery process.
The sections below talk about some of the common causes of workplace accidents and the reasons why they happen.
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slip, trip, and fall incidents are the most common workplace accidents. They might happen in a wide range of work environments, from office settings to warehouses or construction sites. The leading causes include wet or uneven floors, poor lighting, cluttered walkways, and wrong footwear.
Employers may reduce workplace risks by cleaning up cluttered areas and keeping them free from obstructions. They can also ensure that all areas are well lit, instruct employees to wear the appropriate shoes, and place non-slip mats in areas that are highly exposed to moisture.
Overexertion and Repetitive Strain Injuries
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed that overexertion heads the list of workplace injuries in many industries, which include healthcare, manufacturing, and construction.
Workers whose jobs require them to perform repetitive motions, such as typing or lifting, can also sustain a type of injury known as repetitive strain injuries, including carpal tunnel syndrome, which may appear over time as a result of repeated motion.
This may be minimized by employers through the use of proper training on the right lifting techniques, utilizing ergonomic tools and equipment, and encouraging frequent breaks from repetitive motions that cause overexertion.
Falls from Heights
Falls from heights are particularly dangerous and one of the leading causes of death in workplaces, especially in the construction and industrial sectors. If proper safety protocols are not in place, employees working on scaffolds, ladders, roofs, or other elevated surfaces are in grave danger.
OSHA requires that employers provide fall protection systems, such as guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems, to protect workers from falls. Training employees on fall hazards, using the proper equipment, and ensuring that the workplace is safe from fall risks are essential steps in preventing these types of accidents.
Vehicle-Related Accidents
Vehicle-related accidents are common in workplaces where employees operate vehicles—such as trucks, forklifts, or delivery vehicles. Collisions, rollovers, and accidents involving moving vehicles can result in serious injury or death. Most of these incidents occur due to operator error, poor vehicle maintenance, or lack of training.
The employer should ensure that the vehicles are maintained properly, operators are trained, and employee competency is checked regularly.
In addition, safety features of the vehicle, such as seat belts and backup alarms, should be used to prevent accidents.
Exposure to Hazardous Materials
Workers in manufacturing industries, health sectors, and construction sites are at risk of exposure to dangerous chemicals, asbestos, or toxins that can lead to serious health complications or injuries. When exposed to these elements for a long period, it can lead to chronic respiratory diseases, chemical burns, and even cancer.
Employers should instruct employees on how to handle hazardous materials, ensure the use of safety equipment like gloves, masks, and goggles, and adhere to OSHA guidelines for a safe workplace. Periodic health screenings for hazardous material handlers can also facilitate early detection of health problems.
