A workplace injury can have a massive impact on your business as not only are there expensive compensation fees, but the business can also suffer from staff absences.
Workplace injuries can consist of anything that includes an injury at work or an illness that has also been caused by their job. Both an injury and an illness can be caused by a number of ways in the workplace, no matter the type of work environment. It can happen in all sorts of workplaces such as restaurants, factories, offices or even construction sites.
Whatever the working environment, the employer always has a duty of care to not only be fully aware of both the hazards and risks of the workplace, but they must also put in the right level of training as well. These safety procedures will minimise the risk of serious injuries and illness.
What Are The Most Common Types of Injury In A Workplace?
There are a number of risks at any given workplace; however, they can all vary, and the severity of some can be much worse than others.
Slips and Trips
Slips and trips are very common in all workplaces. They mostly occur when there has been a spillage on the floor or when it is uneven. Furthermore, signage must be placed near the spillage or uneven surfaces to ensure that people are aware of it. Ensuring that signage is placed almost instantly after the spillage has occurred, you are reducing the risks of any claims against your business.
Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
This is a very common injury that can happen in factories or even offices. It usually occurs when the employer is doing a repetitive task, such as hammering all day or even using a pillar drill during roadworks.
To help reduce this, an employer should allow the employees to have regular breaks so that it reduces the impact of repetitive tasks. Ergonomic equipment should be offered to employees in the office if they think they will need it.
Industrial Deafness
This particular injury can also be very common, especially for loud workplaces such as factories, construction sites or even roadworks. Both heavy machinery and music venues are common for this, which is why protective equipment such as noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs would be valuable.
Simple Tips To Protect Your Business
To avoid any personal injury or multiple injury claims, you will need to do the following.
- Always remain vigilant and identify any areas that could be a hazard in your workplace.
- Being organised is something that is also important, so make sure your workplace is tidy/decluttered.
- Before employees start work, they need to receive general health and safety training. If their job is more technical, they will also need to receive training for the equipment.
- All employees must be provided with protective equipment when they need it.
- Finally, an accident book must also be used to ensure all accidents and incidents are recorded.
Summary
Being vigilant and providing your employees with the right safety equipment and training is vital for your business. Not only will it keep your employees safe but it will also reduce the loss of earnings at work. The last thing you want is someone to seek loss of limb compensation, as that will be a big payout for your business, not to mention you will likely lose your employee.