According to the International Labor Organization, no less than 2.3 million people die each year from work-related injuries. That’s around 6,000 people daily!

Between slippery floors and heat exhaustion, the workplace is practically filled with all kinds of hazards. So, what are the biggest dangers like heat protective gloves that everyday employees should be aware of?

To help you stay healthy and protected, here is an informative guide that covers the most common workplace injuries.

We’ll explain how they occur, who are most vulnerable, and how to minimize your own risks. Keep reading!

Cuts and Scrapes

There are a lot of common workplace injuries that can happen to anyone at any time. One of the most common is a cut or scrape. This can happen when you are using a sharp object or when you are working with something rough.

To avoid this injury, always wear gloves when working with sharp objects. This will help to protect your hands from getting cut. You must also avoid working with rough materials, but if you must, wear protective clothing.

Bruises

Bruises are usually the result of an accidental fall or collision and can occur just about anywhere on the body. While they may not be the most serious of injuries, they can still be painful and cause some degree of discomfort.

Of course, the best way to avoid bruises is to take all necessary safety precautions. The good news is, that they can be easily treated with an ice pack to reduce the swelling. If the bruise is particularly large or painful, though, you may want to see a doctor.

Sprains and Strains

If you get injured at work with a sprain or strain, it’s most likely due to overexertion or when you use improper lifting techniques. Sprains and strains can be very painful and can result in missed work days and decreased productivity.

Employers can help prevent these injuries by providing employees with proper training on how to lift objects safely and by ensuring that there is adequate staffing to avoid employees having to work excessive hours.

Fractures

Fractures are workplace accidents that can occur for a variety of reasons. They can range from minor to severe, and can often result in time off work for recovery.

There are a number of ways to prevent fractures from happening in the first place. One is ensuring that work areas are well-lit and free from trip, slip, and fall hazards. If a fracture does occur, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Burns

To avoid burns in the workplace, it is important to know the different types they may come in. Thermal burns occur when the skin comes into contact with a hot surface, such as a piece of equipment.

Chemical burns result from contact with a corrosive substance, and electrical burns are caused by direct exposure to electrical current. Taking precautions is key to protection, such as wearing protective clothing or simply being careful in the presence of risk.

The Reality of Workplace Injuries

Truth is, workplace injuries exist in every kind of work environment. It is primarily the responsibility of the employer to ensure that workers are safe. At the same time, workers should take it upon themselves to stay protected.

In any case, understanding the most common types of employee injuries is the first step to preventing them or addressing them effectively when they occur.

Need more helpful tips? We have them in this blog on different areas of life. Keep reading!