A workplace injury is one of the leading causes of lost time from work. In fact, each year, millions of workers suffer from workplace injuries that result in everything from minor scrapes and bruises to more serious disabling injuries.
Your job should be a place where you feel safe and comfortable, not anxious about the possibility of sustaining a workplace injury. Workplace injuries are never desirable, but unfortunately, accidents happen. Whether you’re lifting something too heavy or slipping and falling on a wet floor, workplace injuries can be very painful and costly.
While some workplace injuries are inevitable, there are many steps that employers and employees can take to prevent them. Read on for some tips from our safety experts.
6 Most Important Workplace Injury Prevention Tips
In order to prevent injuries, it is essential to take precautions when working in your office or other work environments. Here are seven tips to prevent workplace injuries and stay safe:
Wear Appropriate Safety Gear
When working in a hazardous environment, it is important to wear the appropriate safety gear to prevent injury. Safety gear includes things like hard hats, goggles, and gloves. Make sure that all safety gear is in good condition and fits properly.
Ensure that you are familiar with the safety gear required in your workplace, and always wear it when necessary. By wearing the appropriate safety gear, you can minimise the risk of injury.
Follow All Safety Protocols and Procedures
When working in an environment with potential hazards, following all safety protocols and procedures is important. This safety protocol includes wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), using caution when working around hazardous materials, and immediately reporting any unsafe conditions.
Make sure you know what the safe way to do your job is. If you don’t know how to do something safely, ask your supervisor for help.
Use the Correct Lifting Techniques
When lifting objects, use the correct techniques to avoid injury. When lifting, use your legs to do the work, not your back. This technique will help you avoid back injuries. Bend your knees and keep your back straight as you lift. When carrying a load, keep it close to your body. Avoid twisting your body while lifting.
When you are done lifting, take a few minutes to stretch your back and muscles. This will also help reduce your risk of injury.
Take Breaks Often
One of the most important things you can do to prevent workplace injuries is to take breaks often. When you’re working, your muscles can get tired and strained, leading to an injury. Taking breaks will help to refresh your body and mind, and it will also help prevent you from getting too tired.
It’s a good idea to get up and walk around every 20 minutes or so to give your body a break. You’ll be more productive in the long run.
Stretch Your Muscles Regularly
One way to help prevent workplace injuries is to stretch your muscles regularly. This can help keep your muscles limber and less susceptible to injury. When you stretch, hold each position for 10 to 30 seconds.
You should also aim to stretch your major muscle groups at least twice a week. For example, stretch your hamstrings, quadriceps, and calf muscles. If you have any existing injuries, consult a doctor or physical therapist before starting a stretching routine.
Avoid Sitting in the Same Position for Too Long
Sitting in the same position for too long can cause back pain and other muscle issues. To avoid this, try to take breaks every hour or so to move around and stretch your muscles and get your blood flowing. When you have the chance, try alternately sitting and standing.
If you’re ever injured at work, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. We have a team of experienced chiropractors who can get you back on your feet in no time.
Related Article: How Chiropractic Care Can Prevent Workplace Injury
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