Work related injuries are a massive pain for all concerned. Being in pain can be very disheartening and when it happens at work, it is understandable that many people struggle to deal with the issue. At home, people can relax, lie down and take steps to make themselves more comfortable but in work, certain practices and procedures need to be followed.
There are many reasons why more and more companies are focusing on health and safety. An injured employee will be off work or unable to work at full potential, so a company will suffer from a reduction in productivity. There may also be the fact that some injuries may see the company facing a lawsuit. At the most basic level, the threat of injuries and accidents can threaten workplace morale, so it is best for firms to provide their employees with advice, guidance and a safer working environment to ensure morale and productivity remains high.
Work Place Injuries Cost Businesses
Statistic provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for 2012 suggested that close to 3 million non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported. This led to businesses losing out on 60 million workdays and experienced a collective loss of $198.2m.
There are many ways that businesses can try to lower the risk of injury or accidents in the workplace. Training is essential, as is providing employees with suitable equipment to do their job. There is also a need for firms to have management or supervisory staff responsible for maintaining safety and who can be contacted with any reports or concerns. Every employee has a role to play in ensuring the workplace is safe and businesses should try to encourage a safe working environment.
Common work related incidents or events that cause injuries include:
- Overexertion – pulling, pushing, stretching, lifting
- Falling, slipping or trip
- Being struck by an object or striking an object
- Repetitive motion
- Violent acts
- Driving accident
Different working environments make the likelihood of some incidents or events occurring more likely. Delivery drivers will be at risk fromroad accidents and if they have to lift and drop-off parcels, they may find that lifting, pulling and pushing incidents cause injury.
People working in an office environment may be at risk of falls or slips, while people working in the construction industry will find themselves at risk in many different ways. It is crucial that employees are aware of the likely risks they face in the workplace and should know what they can do to minimize the risk of injury.
For all of the following injuries, if symptoms persist, it is important for people to receive professional medical attention.
Headaches
All sorts of people in all manner of working environments can experience debilitating headaches. Common cures or remedies for headaches include pain medication, drinking plenty of water, setting up a workspace in more natural light and making general health improvements, such as exercising and eating more healthily.
Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain is a common complaint amongst office workers and is a good example of a repetitive strain injury or RSI. Workers who use a computer and mouse may find themselves at greater risk of this type of injury.
Steps to take to minimize or reduce shoulder pain include improving your posture, sitting correctly, and ensuring your elbows are supported, and relaxing your shoulders.
Back Pain
Learning how to sit and lift correctly to avoid placing undue pressure on your back is essential for all employees. If an employeeis suffering back pain, they need to know what they can do to alleviate or lessen the pain or impact of their injury.Staying active is important, but so is taking regular breaks, as well as taking appropriate medication. For additional support, employees in certain roles or positions may benefit from using a brace. The use of back braces provides employees with extra support, allowing them to carry out their everyday duties with less discomfort.
Leg Pain / Feet Pain
If you are on your feet all day, you may find that your feet and legs get tired. You should be looking to wear more comfortable socks and shoes and you should think about placing a softer layer over the floor where you sit or stand. Being active and moving about will improve circulation in your legs and feet, which will hopefully lessen any pain you may be experiencing.
With many people experiencing injuries or pain at work, knowing how to ease the pain is vital for employers and employees.