Many people in the Springfield area are not aware that they work in environments that are filled with hazards. Some of them are more dangerous than others and have the potential to cause significant harm to employees. The number of nonfatal workplace injuries that private employees suffered in 2015 was 2.9 million, states the Insurance Journal.
Employers must take measures to keep their worksites reasonably free of dangers. Not all hazards are preventable. Employees should consider the following common types of workplace accidents that can occur so they can take extra precautions to prevent them.
Slip and falls
Many conditions can lead to slip-and-fall accidents. Wet floors, buckled carpets, damaged floors, missing handrails and misplaced equipment and cords. It is not uncommon for employees to fall and suffer severe muscle strains, broken bones, fractures and concussions.
Electrical
Most worksites are full of equipment that require electricity. When that equipment malfunctions or has defects, electrical shocks and electrocutions are likely to happen. Injuries can range from mild shocks to death and cause a great deal of pain and suffering for the victims and their loved ones.
Ergonomic
Many people who work in office and manufacturing environments sit, stand and maintain body positions that are not ideal for their health. Prolonged and repeated improper body postures can lead to muscle soreness, repetitive stress injuries and chronic ailments, states Safetylineloneworker.com.
Keep in mind that not all hazards are physical. Some dangers create high-stress environments that can cause workers to develop major health disorders that interfere with their job performances and lives.