Workplace Safety 101: Preventing Common On-the-Job Injuries
Workplace safety is something that should be guaranteed to every worker. When you clock into your shift each day, you should feel confident that your place of work is safe. However, on-the-job injuries are an unfortunate reality that you should be aware of.
Getting injured at work can have a huge impact on your health, well-being, and ability to carry out your job duties. To avoid having to deal with the fallout of a workplace injury, there are a few key things you can do to help prevent them from happening in the first place. In today’s blog, we’ll delve deeper into the topic of workplace safety and discuss methods of preventing injury.
Identify Common Hazards
One of the best ways to prevent an on-the-job injury is to keep an eye out for common hazards that could lead to injury. Take some time out of your day to assess your work environment to carefully look for potential hazards. You should be on the lookout for any objects or conditions that could threaten your safety, such as loose cables, slippery floors, or hazardous materials laying on the ground. If you spot any hazards, make sure to report it so that the issue can be quickly addressed.
Safety Training
Every employer has a responsibility to ensure that their employees have all the proper safety training and education needed to perform their job safely. Attend these safety training sessions and take them seriously. They can inform you about best practices in avoiding common hazards at your specific workplace. Make sure you know the locations of emergency exits, first-aid kits, and fire extinguishers.
Lifting Techniques
One of the most common forms of on-the-job injury is from lifting heavy objects. This can cause back injuries to employees, both acute and chronic. To prevent these injuries, take some time to learn the proper lifting techniques needed to safely lift a heavy object. Remember to lift with your legs instead of your back. Keep your knees bent, your back straight, and use your leg muscles to do the heavy lifting. If an object is too heavy, make sure to use equipment like dollies or fork lifts.
Ergonomic Workstations
Even office workers who primarily sit at desks aren’t immune to workplace injuries. Sitting at a desk for long hours can cause strain on your body. Look into creating an ergonomic workstation that minimizes strain on your body, such as adjustments to your chair, keyboard, and monitor. Use the proper typing techniques to avoid carpal tunnel syndrome. Take short breaks to go for a walk around the office to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal issues.
Workplace safety is a team effort from both employees and employers. However, an accident that leads to injury can always occur. If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident, call 1-800-411-PAIN. If you’ve been involved in an accident, the guidance from a personal injury attorney could help navigate the aftermath. It is helpful to have legal and medical experts on your side. The experts at 1-800-411-PAIN can help explain your options, fight for the compensation you deserve, and guide you through a swift recovery.
If you or a loved person has been injured in an accident, call 1-800-411-PAIN today. Our legal professionals can help you navigate the tricky process of filing an insurance claim. Our medical professionals are here to provide you with the treatment you need. Remember, after 911, call 411.