Summary: Providing a safe work environment is key in reducing the risk employees face in the workplace. This article discusses five of the most common workplace injuries and accidents and provides some safety tips and loss control efforts employers can implement to help decrease them. The Importance of Reducing Accidents in the Workplace
Safe workplaces reduce the human and financial costs associated with an accident and boost morale and productivity. Additionally, promoting a
culture of safety ensures a business is protecting its most valuable assets – its employees.
Based on internal analysis of claims data, AmTrust, one of the largest provider of workers’ compensation insurance nationwide, found that the five most types of workplace injuries for small businesses include:
- Overexertion
- Falls, slips or trips
- Transportation incidents
- Burns
- Lacerations
The good news is that over the past 15 years, improved safety conditions and requirements have reduced the number of workplace injuries that occur on the job. By implementing
workplace safety programs, many accidents and injuries can be avoided.
The 5 Most Common Workplace Accidents: Tips to Avoid Injuries
Here are five tips for business owners to help their employees avoid some of the most common workplace injuries:
Overexertion
The most common type of overexertion is back strain as a result of
lifting heavy objects. Overexertion from repeated work-related activities can also lead to a variety of
cumulative trauma disorders, such as tendonitis and carpal tunnel syndrome. When carrying substantial items, keep the load close, bend at the hips, and do not over-reach or twist the body. Additionally, maintaining good physical condition by practicing stretching and conditioning exercises and good posture can help to prevent these injuries.
Falls, Slips or Trips
Certain floor surface types, level changes and friction, as well as changes in the floor surface or foreign objects, can increase the potential for
falls, slips or trips. It is important to have good visibility, remove obstructions and be aware of your surroundings to reduce the potential for these accidents. Employers should also offer training programs focused on fall prevention and always provide the proper equipment like body harnesses or guardrails to help reduce risk.
Transportation Incidents
One of the most common workplace accidents is a result of incidents involving vehicles. For employees who drive as part of their daily duties, observing traffic laws is important for their safety and others on the road. Other considerations include wearing seatbelts, evaluating weather conditions, providing training to personnel operating specialized vehicles, implementing routine maintenance and not requiring staff to drive at irregular hours. Checking drivers’
motor vehicle reports (MVRs) can also ensure only qualified, safe drivers are getting behind the wheel.
Burns
Some industries have considerable exposure to
burn risks, including restaurants, construction, auto mechanics and certain types of manufacturing. Wearing and using protective equipment and maintaining tools can reduce the potential for burn hazards in these industries.
Lacerations
With many ways an employee can be cut or punctured by tools, machines, instruments, as well as environmental objects like plants or animals, it is best to focus on general safety precautions such as maintaining equipment and ensuring necessary procedures are implemented and enforced. If employees regularly work with knives, such as in commercial kitchens, proper
knife safety training can help reduce some of the risk these workers face.
Loss Control Services from AmTrust Financial
AmTrust’s
Loss Control Department can help insureds by providing the right
safety resources and commercial property safeguards to ensure their ongoing success. It’s our goal to help insureds identify specific hazards and offer solutions that fit each operation.
Contact us for more information about creating a customized loss control program for your organization.
This material is for informational purposes only and is not legal or business advice. Neither AmTrust Financial Services, Inc. nor any of its subsidiaries or affiliates represents or warrants that the information contained herein is appropriate or suitable for any specific business or legal purpose. Readers seeking resolution of specific questions should consult their business and/or legal advisors. Coverages may vary by location. Contact your local RSM for more information.