10 Tips To Avoid Workplace Injuries

In recognition of National Preparedness Month, David H. Perecman, Founder and Lead Trial Attorney of The Perecman Firm, P.L.L.C., is sharing tactics and tips for workers to protect themselves from serious workplace injuries.

Every seven seconds, a worker suffers an on-the-job injury, according to the National Safety Council. In 2017, about 104 million production days were lost due to workplace injuries. The most common on-the-job injuries resulting in lost days of work are overexertion, contact with objects and equipment, and slips, trips, and falls. Occupations with the highest number of workplace injuries include construction, public service (police and firefighters), transportation and shipping, manufacturing and production, installation, maintenance and repairs.

To avoid serious injury in the workplace, it’s important for workers to take proper precautions, including:

1. Always wear required personal protective equipment — including safety goggles, earplugs or muffs, goggles, face shield, hard hat, etc.
2. Clean up spills immediately upon discovery
3. Wear anti-slip shoes
4. Make sure that ladders, scaffolds, and tools are inspected and maintained regularly
5. Stack materials properly to avoid sliding
6. Ask for assistance or use devices to help lift heavier loads
7. Keep workspaces orderly and footpaths clear
8. For drivers, make sure you wear seatbelts, never text and drive, and check the vehicle thoroughly
9. Don’t work under operating machinery, cranes, or hoists
10. Don’t take shortcuts

“While no one wants to be involved in an on-the-job accident, they’re a common occurrence, so it’s up to everyone to be prepared, take precautions, and know the steps to take should an incident occur,” said Perecman. “If you are injured on the job, it’s important to, first and foremost, seek immediate medical attention. Thereafter, be sure to report the incident and your injuries to your immediate supervisor and file a formal workers’ compensation claim. If you are able to do so, document the scene of the accident, your injuries, and write down any key details, including the contact information of any witnesses.”