In 2018 alone, there were nearly three million nonfatal workplace accidents. These accidents often place people out of work. Some people even die from these accidents. But what kind of accidents are most likely to occur on the job?
Many injuries could happen while at work. Many of these depend on your job. Generally, however, the following five are the most common work injuries sustained across industries.
- Slips and Falls
Slipping, falling, and tripping are widespread workplace injuries. These occur for multiple reasons. The most common reason is slippery surfaces, but they can also happen from unstable ladders or scaffolding.
Slips and falls may be minor, causing little to no injury. Other times, slips and falls can cause significant bruising, strains, fractures, or even broken bones. Falling from an elevated surface can also be fatal.
- Muscle Strains
Muscle strains occur when your body does too much at once or is placed under stress from repetitive motions. Although these injuries are most common in jobs where heavy lifting is routinely required, it can happen in any job.
The back and neck are most susceptible to muscle strains. Remembering to lift with your legs instead of your back can help decrease your risk of sustaining muscle strains at work.
- Cuts
Cuts can occur from almost anything, from a piece of paper to a power saw. People who work with heavy machinery, power tools, or similar equipment are most at risk of cutting themselves while on the job watch market online.
Most cuts are minor injuries that require limited intervention. In some cases, however, cuts can be severe and even life-threatening. The most severe types of cuts generally only happen in high-risk work environments and require immediate medical attention.
- Bruises
Bruises develop after there is an impact on your muscles. The discoloration and pain from bruises are caused by a combination of swelling and blood settling beneath the skin. Most injuries aren’t anything to be concerned about.
Bruises are rarely truly dangerous. Depending on how severe, how large, and where the bruises are located, they can make moving around painful. Bruises can be dangerous for certain people, such as those with bleeding disorders or illnesses where healing is slowed.
- Transportation-Related Accidents
Transportation-related accidents may be the least common injury listed here, but they’re also the most likely to be fatal. Most of these accidents occur for those working in public transportation or heavy machinery (including forklifts).
Ensuring all workers are OSHA certified, and incorporating transportation safety training can help decrease the risk of transportation-related accidents. Everyone who operates any vehicle should undergo this training.
What Should You Do If You Have a Serious Workplace Injury?
Some workplace injuries aren’t serious enough to be more than an inconvenience. However, if you sustain a serious workplace injury, it’s essential you go to a workers comp doctors. They are trained to work with workers comp insurance to ensure you get paid for the time you’re out of work.
Do You Have More Questions About Common Work Injuries?
The five above accidents are among the most common work injuries. If you have more questions, take a look at our other blog posts. You’ll find a wealth of information on related topics.