No workplace is completely safe. From trips and falls to cracking your skull and feeling depressed, many workplace problems can affect your health and finances. And while many employees choose not to report their physical and mental issues to their employers because “they can handle themselves,” this is not the right course of action.
This article discusses four common injuries that can happen to anyone at the workplace and how to deal with them. We will also talk about workers’ workplace compensation and why it is crucial for every employee and worker. Keep reading.
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slips usually happen when there is a wet or oily surface. Trips typically happen when there are obstacles in your path. Falls usually occur when you lose your balance or footing.
For example, you might slip on a wet floor in the break room, trip over a co-worker’s laptop cord that was left in the aisle, or fall off a ladder while reaching for something.
Most slips, trips, and falls are minor, but some can lead to more serious injuries, like concussions, broken bones, and torn ligaments.
What to do if you have a slip, trip, or fall injury:
- If you can, get up slowly and carefully.
- If you can’t get up, don’t try to. This could make your injury worse.
- Call for help. Let your supervisor or manager know what happened and that you need assistance.
- If you hit your head, seek medical attention right away. Even if you don’t think you have a concussion, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
- If you have any other injuries, like a broken bone or a deep cut, seek medical attention.
- If you have sustained spin injury at work, immediately seek medical attention on the premises.
You may be eligible for workers ‘ compensation benefits for workplace injuries due to a slip, trip, or fall. These benefits can help you cover your medical expenses and lost wages while recovering from your injuries.
Repetitive Motion Injuries
Repetitive motion injuries (RMIs) repeatedly happen when you do the same thing. For example, if you type all day, you might get carpal tunnel syndrome. Or, if you lift heavy boxes repeatedly, you might develop shoulder pain. Other common RMIs include tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, and trigger finger.
RMIs can be extremely painful and debilitating. They can make it hard for you to do your job and even prevent you from working altogether.
What to do if you have an RMI:
- Don’t strain the injured body part.
- Your doctor may also recommend physical therapy to help you recover from your injury.
Back Injuries
Back injuries can happen in many ways. You might lift something heavy and strain your back muscles. Or you might twist your back awkwardly and damage your spine. Back injuries can range from mild to severe and are extremely painful.
What to do:
- Rest as much as possible.
- Apply ice to the injured area for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Take over-the-counter pain medication, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- If the pain is severe, your doctor may prescribe stronger medication.
Eye Injuries
Eye injuries can happen in many ways. You might get dust or chemicals in your eye, hit in the eye with a piece of equipment, or rub your eye too hard and damage the cornea. Eye injuries can range from mild to severe, and they can be very painful.
Final Word
There are many different workplace injuries, and some can be more serious than others. If you have been injured at work, it is important to seek medical attention right away. You may also be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can help you cover your medical expenses and lost wages while recovering from your injuries.
