Workplace injuries happen every single day, from minor scrapes to serious or fatal accidents. While it is up to a business owner to take the appropriate precautions, it’s also important for employees to identify potential risk factors to protect their health onsite.

The ILO has estimated that approximately 2.3 million men and women worldwide will experience a work-related disease or accident every year. If you want to protect your health, here are five common injuries which can occur at work.

1. Slips, Trips & Falls

Unsurprisingly, slips, trips, and falls are common in the workplace, as they can happen in almost every setting, such as a factory, retail store, or an office. For example, you could sustain an injury after walking on a slippery surface.

There are, however, bigger slip, trip, and fall risks for employees who are required to work at height, as they could fall from a ladder, scaffolding, or a platform. If you or a loved one has sustained a serious or fatal injury at work, visit the-compensation-experts.co.uk to make a claim and receive compensation.

2. Muscle Strains

Anyone who regularly lifts heavy materials at work could experience a muscle strain. If an employer has failed to provide the right tools or training to help you effectively lift items, it is easy to sustain a neck or back injury. To ensure you don’t experience a strained muscle at work in the future, speak to your employer about receiving basic training on the best and most suitable lifting techniques.

3. Injury from a Falling Object

Injuries from a falling object are common in workplaces where employees work from a height, such as a warehouse. Unfortunately, it only takes one employee to accidentally drop a hammer or material for an employee on the ground to pay the price. Other injuries could be caused by objects falling from shelving or cupboards.

While accidents can happen, it is possible for employers to prevent falling items. For example, they could install adequate storing cages or can educate employees on how to effectively store items safely to minimize risk.

4. Repetitive Strain Injury

Repetitive strain injuries are becoming increasingly common. Yet, many employers are failing to take the health issue seriously, despite it causing great pain to employees. While it’s an injury commonly associated with office workers who use keyboards, it can happen in almost any industry.

Any repetitive motion of the joints can lead to RSI, which can range from mild to severe pain. That is why it is vital for workers to take regular breaks throughout the day, and employers must also invest in ergonomic equipment to reduce strain.

5. Cuts and Lacerations

Cuts and lacerations can happen in all industries. For example, it’s easy to cut yourself on a paper trimmer or to experience a severe laceration when using a power saw. The mistakes are often avoidable and can be sustained due to inadequate safety procedures, a failure to wear personal protective clothing, and/or poor training.