We spend a preponderance of our time at work. With all of this regular activity and exertion, there is an increased likelihood of getting injured on the job.
Fortunately, injury prevention does not require total avoidance of work. We can prevent work-related injuries by employing certain Best Practices, such as taking regular breaks and avoiding certain hazardous movements.
You can avoid being injured while working by first understanding some of the most common workplace injuries, because awareness is key. Let’s talk about what those common injuries are and who you can talk to if you are developing an injury.
What Injuries Can Happen at Work?
The following are the most common work-related injuries that account for approximately 84% of nonfatal injuries while working:
Overexertion and Repetitive Motion Injuries
Overexertion injuries are those that are sustained from physical acts such as lifting, pulling, and pushing. This involves physical force toward an external object, such as what’s required in construction, manufacturing, and transport.
Repetitive motion injuries, on the other hand, are injuries sustained from performing gentler motions but on a repeated basis. The frequency of the movement causes harm. A very common cause of repetitive motion injuries are typing and using a computer.
To prevent these injuries, use proper ergonomic equipment and movements. Also incorporate stretching and strengthening exercises, and take breaks. Remember that when you sustain an injury, it will hinder you from performing your job. Therefore, prevention is really the key to the continuation of your job.
Slipping, Tripping, and Falling
There are many possible causes for you to slip and fall at work. It may be due to a slippery floor, poor lighting, an obstructed pathway, uneven surfaces, unsupportive shoes, or being distracted. Slips, trips, and falls can cause sprains and fractures to the ankle, hip, shoulder, and arm.
To help prevent such injuries, help make your workplace safe for everyone by pointing out potential hazards to your manager or supervisor, or move/remove the hazard yourself if it is safe and valid for you to do so. Every employee has to play their part in keeping a safe and healthy workplace.
Contact with Objects and Equipment
Those who work in agriculture, warehouses, and transport are prone to injuries that stem from contact with heavy objects or sharp equipment. In order to prevent injuries from contact with objects, wear the personal protective equipment (PPE) provided to you by the company. Also, take frequent breaks so that you do not become tired or complacent, which can create a favorable environment for sudden injury.
Treatment for Hand and Shoulder Work-Related Injuries
At Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder, our team of orthopedic doctors and hand surgeons specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of work-related injuries affecting the upper extremities. We fully understand the Maryland workers’ compensation system, and we will effectively communicate with your employer and insurance company and assist you in your safe return to your job.
To find out more about our workers’ compensation program, call Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder today at (410) 296-6232 or request an appointment via our online form now. We look forward to serving you.
