The Most Common Causes of Accidents at Work

It’s not uncommon to hear about an accident that one of your colleagues or friends have had whilst at work. There are a number of reasons why these accidents happen, sometimes due to negligence, and other times completely by accident.

Here are the most common causes of accidents at work.

Slips and Falls

When floors are wet and slippery, people are more likely to lose their balance and fall. Work areas that experience a high volume of traffic are also a common cause of accidents.

Trips and falls can result in both minor and major injuries. If you’ve been had a slip and fall incident at work, you should contact a slip and fall accident lawyer immediately. You might be entitled to compensation for the injuries you’ve received. They will help you through any claims to ensure you get what you deserve.

Cuts and Burns

Cuts and burns are most common in businesses that are in the food and drink industry. Cooking and baking often involve using sharp equipment or hot ovens and stoves that can lead to injuries.

Many cuts and burns can be treated with the first aid kits that every business is bound by law to have somewhere within the building. The first steps to take after receiving one of these injuries is to wash your hands and see to the wound. It should be cleaned and wiped with antiseptic to minimise the risk of infection.

Poor Lifting Technique

Lifting heavy boxes and bags with poor technique is a risk factor for chronic lower back pain, sprains or muscle tears. Most businesses provide health and safety training, but if this is not followed, or not provided at all, employees are at risk of hurting themselves.

To avoid this common cause of muscle and joint injuries, lift within your capabilities and make sure to ask for help when necessary. Do not attempt to lift heavy objects on your own if you’re unsure.

Fatigue

Employees are often overworked. They stay on to do a longer shift at work, or they take on an extra day each work. This can lead to long-term fatigue and burn out, placing them at risk of doing something wrong and injuring themselves.

If you’re in this situation where you feel overworked, it’s important to raise this issue to your management. Those who work in active, laborious jobs are particular high risk for fatigue-related injuries at work. Make sure to take regular breaks throughout the day to relax and regain your energy and concentration.

Working with Hazardous Substances

Unfortunately, some jobs require the handling of hazardous materials. If you are in one of these roles, it’s critical that you follow the guidelines detailing how to properly handle the substances. Forgetting to wear the proper personal protective equipment or failing to use the substances correctly can lead to serious acute and chronic injuries.