6 Workplace Injury Prevention Strategies for Your Business
The American workplace thrives on productivity, but increasing workplace injuries affect business and employee well-being. Beyond the human cost, workplace injuries translate into lost productivity, increased healthcare costs, and potential worker’s compensation claims.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) census of fatal work injuries reports for 2022, there were 5,486 fatal work injuries in the United States, which is a 5.7% increase from 5,190 in 2021. The rate of fatal work injuries was 3.7 per 100,000 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers, up from 3.6 per 100,000 FTE in 2021.
The most crucial finding in the reports was that a worker died every 96 minutes due to a work-related injury in 2022, compared to 101 minutes in 2021. These numbers underscore the importance of prioritizing workplace safety to protect employees and businesses.
Top Ways to Minimize Workplace Injuries
By implementing effective workplace injury prevention programs, businesses can create a safer work environment, reduce costs, and foster a healthier and happier workforce.
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Regular Risk Assessments for Slips, Trips, and Falls
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, slips, trips, and falls are the most common cause of workplace injuries, accounting for nearly 25% of all reported cases in 2021. These types of workplace incidents can lead to severe injuries, including broken bones, sprains, and head trauma.
To avoid such incidents, the floors should be kept clean and dry, any uneven surfaces must be addressed immediately, sufficient lighting must be ensured throughout the workplace, housekeeping measures must be enforced, and employees must wear slip-resistant footwear suitable for their work environment. In addition, there should always be an accessible first-aid for workplace injury at the spot.
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Safety Training and Education to Minimize Musculoskeletal Disorders
MSDs or Musculoskeletal Disorders are a leading cause of workplace sickness. These disorders can cause pain, discomfort, and limitations in mobility, affecting productivity and employee well-being.
Training employees on proper lifting techniques and safe work practices is essential. Investing in ergonomic equipment such as adjustable chairs and desks can also help. Rotating tasks is recommended to prevent repetitive motions. Additionally, educating employees on recognizing the signs and symptoms of MSDs (musculoskeletal disorders) is essential to encourage early reporting.
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Executing a Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Program for Construction Site Injuries
The construction industry in the USA is known for having one of the highest rates of workplace injuries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 100,000 injuries were reported in 2021 alone.
These injuries can be severe and life-changing, so enforcing safety measures such as using hard hats, safety glasses or goggles, and respirators in dusty environments is crucial. It’s also essential to provide proper training on the safe function of power tools to prevent accidents caused by falling objects, vulnerability to dust and debris, and misuse of power tools.
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Prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome with Ergonomic Design
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a general occupational illness that impacts millions of workers, particularly those in office jobs. Pain and tingling sensations in the hands and wrists can significantly reduce workers’ productivity.
To avoid Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, use flexible workstations with ergonomic keyboards. In addition, allow time for breaks and perform hand stretches and exercises.
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Implementing Safety Measures to Lessen Electrocution Injuries
Electrical hazards can cause severe injuries and sometimes even result in fatalities. The National Safety Council reports that electrical contact injuries are responsible for over 300 worker deaths each year. To prevent such incidents, it is essential to conduct regular inspections of electrical equipment and wiring, train employees on electrical safety procedures, including lockout/tagout protocols, and provide appropriately insulated tools and equipment for electrical work.
It is also crucial to know the location of underground power lines and maintain a safe distance from overhead lines. Before working on or near any electrical systems, inspect them for signs of defects or disrupted paths to the ground. Finally, it is essential to work only with electrical equipment that meets OSHA standards.
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Reducing Workplace Violence with Clear Policies
Over 2 million workplace violence incidents occur each year in the US. While not all incidents result in injury, they can create a hostile work environment and impact employee well-being. Execute clear policies and practices for managing workplace violence incidents, offer training on dispute resolution skills and de-escalation strategies for employees and managers, and establish a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and violence in the workplace.
Partner with an Injury Prevention Specialist for Comprehensive Support
Workplace Injury prevention specialists can help you identify and reduce workplace hazards. They can deliver valuable insights to protect your employees and others from injuries.
Injury prevention specialists can help you identify hazards and develop a comprehensive safety plan. They consider your unique work environment, assess equipment and machinery, and analyze workflows and procedures. With their help, you can create a safer workplace for your team.
Build a Safer Workplace with WorkPartners
Building a safety culture is not just about ticking all the boxes—it’s about creating work conditions that genuinely value and prioritize employee well-being. With practical prevention strategies and a trusted advisor like WorkPartners, you can significantly reduce the risk of workplace injuries, leading to a healthier and happier workforce and a more successful business.
While remote triage services have emerged as a practical solution, a comprehensive injury prevention plan offers even more significant benefits. WorkPartners goes beyond immediate response to provide a full range of injury prevention solutions, empowering your workforce and reducing the risk of casualties in the first place.
Discover how WorkPartners can help you create a safer work environment.
