The number of workplace injuries in New York is staggering and may be discouraging to the average worker. According to the National Safety Council, a worker in the country is injured on the job every seven seconds. One of the best ways to avoid these injuries is to take preventative action that can prevent needless suffering and pain on the part of employees.
In 2017, 104 million production days were lost because of work-related injuries. This shows that these issues affect not only employees but also deal a big hit to employers in the form of decreased productivity and lost workdays.
Overexertion accounts for almost 34% of workplace injuries. This includes repetitive motion injuries and lifting or lowering. It is advised that workers take frequent short breaks and avoid twisting, reaching or bending when lifting.
Contact with equipment and objects caused 26% of injuries. Employees can be struck by equipment, caught or compressed by it or caught in the collapse of material or equipment. Preventative measures include storing heavy objects on the ground level, increasing awareness of any moving objects in the area and wearing the appropriate protective equipment.
Slips, trips and falls are also a large problem in the workplace. There are falls on the same level and workers who fall from one level to another. To prevent these injuries, ladders should be placed on a solid, even surface and workers should integrate good housekeeping practices.
SHRM also lists ergonomic injuries as common in the office. Adjustable desks, keyboards, chairs and other office equipment can help to accommodate all work styles, but the employee must also be taught how to operate and set up the equipment for the best fit.
Because workplace injuries can greatly affect the bottom line of a business, both employers and employees benefit from avoiding injuries. If you have been injured on the job you may benefit from speaking to a workers’ compensation attorney.
