Unfortunately, accidents at work are fairly commonplace with many resulting in long absences at work and in some extreme cases, fatalities. We have compiled this list of the usual suspects:
Trips and slips – this is one of the most common scenarios with slippery reception areas, toilets and factory floors being the main culprits.
Falls – falling off ladders, scaffolding, platforms and stairwells are the biggest problems in this category.
Back and Neck injuries – usually associated with heavy lifting and lack of training.
Cuts – sawing equipment and machinery with moving parts tend to be the main issues here.
RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) – sometimes referred to as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, this is often associated with repetitive use of computer keyboards but it covers any activity that involves repetitive motion of the joints.
Burns – chemical burns tend to be the main culprit here, particularly in factories and laboratory settings. Burns are also common with welding torches, equipment overheating and in workplace kitchen and café settings.
Toppling accidents – this happens when there is inappropriate stacking of materials and unsecured shelving. This scenario can often be extremely dangerous depending on the materials involved.
Impact/Crash injuries – accidents involving company vehicles, tractors, cherry-pickers and not following average speed guidance in workplace settings are common issues.
Loss of hearing – problems caused by constant exposure to loud noise usually in industrial settings is the main problem here.
Inhalation of fumes – breathing in dangerous chemical and fumes usually in industrial settings can be a problem. Adverse skin and eye reactions to chemicals/fumes can also be an issue.
The above list is not exhaustive but they are the most common problems that we get to hear about and become involved with. If you have had an accident at work and you need advice about what to do next then please get in touch on 0800 002 9577.