Overexertion injuries can happen from working in awkward positions. Thankfully, it’s easy to avoid overexerting yourself by simply adjusting your work approach. For instance, if you spend all day at a desk, adjusting your chair height and computer distance is a wise ergonomic approach. If you spend all day driving for work, using a supportive back cushion could be all your back needs to stay safe. What other types of workplace accidents do you need to be aware of? Read on to learn about three types of work-related injuries and how to avoid them.

1. Falling Objects

Picture it. You’re in the supply room, and you see the papers you need hanging off a top-shelf. However, what you don’t see is that someone decided to set a stapler on top of the papers. Reaching up, you pull the papers towards you when suddenly the stapler flies off the shelf and hits your face. Ouch! One of the best ways to avoid this injury is by always storing things in their proper places. If you notice anyone putting things on high shelves that don’t belong there, speak to the appropriate supervisor about holding a safety meeting. While you don’t want to single out your co-workers, allowing them to continue with unsafe practices puts them in danger. Instead, just let your supervisor know that you’ve witnessed a safety problem, and you’d like them to address your entire team. After all, safety is a team effort.

2. Trips and Falls

Every year, close to 646,000 people worldwide die because of a fall. That means that falls are the second leading cause of unintentional death by injury, with road traffic injuries being the first. For a fall prevention strategy to work it has to be comprehensive. That means that every room, from the bathrooms to the breakroom, needs to be fall-proof. First, screen your entire work environment to identify potential tripping hazards. Loose tiles, slippery spots, and debris on the ground are all things that could cause a fall. If you notice any of these hazards report them to your supervisor or human resources manager immediately. Work-related injuries are something your management team should take seriously. If you do get hurt at work you can call this injury attorney, to explore all of your options.

3. Cuts and Lacerations

Cuts and lacerations include injuries like puncture wounds, scratches, abrasions, and more. Usually, cuts and lacerations can be completely avoided when the employer takes the right safety precautions. First, it all starts with proper training. By teaching employees how to properly use tools or equipment, the risk of an accident starts to decline. Next, employers need to require workers to use the right type of protective equipment, like gloves. If an employer requires their employees to wear gloves, they also need to make sure the employees are using the right type of gloves. Wearing loose-fitting, or awkward fitting gloves can be worse than not wearing any.

Now you know about three common work-related injuries, and the steps you can take to prevent them. We hope you share your new knowledge with your co-workers to promote the safest possible working environment. For more ways to stay safe, check some more of our articles.

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