5 Common Causes of Workplace Injuries
December 27, 2022
- Cumulative Trauma
Stems from repetitive motions over a long period of time, leading to the degradation of a body part, joint, muscle, or tendon
How to Avoid: pay attention to posture | take short breaks to stretch | use ergonomic tools | wear braces and supports | know proper lifting techniques - Slips, Trips & Falls
Occur due to wet surfaces, weather hazards, poor lighting, obstructed views, cluttered paths, and uneven surfaces; falls often happen from heights, including from ladders, stairs, and roofs
How to Avoid: practice good housekeeping | wear proper footwear | understand ladder safety | mind your surroundings | report or clear areas with clutter, spillage, or obstructions - Contact w/Equipment or Objects
Striking, being struck by, or being pinched or crushed by equipment, materials, or objects; also caused by friction between a person and an object
How to Avoid: use caution around machinery | be aware of overhead objects; report signs of instability | undergo proper training | perform routine maintenance of equipment and machinery - Material Handling
Common in manufacturing and the retail industry; injuries usually occur from unsafe or incorrect practices in moving materials, manually and mechanically
How to Avoid: practice proper lifting | use mechanical aids as appropriate | avoid lifting/moving items that are too bulky, heavy, or awkward for one person - Incidents Involving Tools
Includes injuries from power and nonpowered tools; typically caused by human error, improper use, or tool malfunction
How to Avoid: ensure proper training | never work while distracted | inspect tools regularly | use tools only as intended by the manufacturer
Disclaimer: The GUARD Wire is designed to provide general information about various topics of interest and should NOT replace the guidance, advice, or recommendations from licensed insurance or legal professionals, other industry experts, or state and federal authorities.
