North Carolina workers’ compensation law requires businesses with three or more employees to have the proper insurance to protect against workplace injury losses. However, while workers’ compensation insurance can help businesses avoid lawsuits and cover damages and lost wages for injured professionals, it’s far better for employers and employees alike to identify these risks and prevent them in the first place. Here are five common work-related accidents to watch for and tips on how to avoid them.

5 Common Injuries in the Workplace

1. Slips and Falls

Whether they’re the result of someone losing their footing on a ladder or slipping on spilled water, falls are one of the most common incidents in workplaces. These accidents can be covered by workers’ compensation law, even if the victim is at fault. To prevent slips and falls, businesses must enact policies to ensure that that work area is clean and unobstructed at all times. Signage should also be in place to identify hazards such as wet areas.

2. Vehicle Accidents

Workers’ compensation law can cover injuries associated with work-related vehicle accidents, such as overturned forklifts or commercial truck crashes. Since these incidents can also result in costly property damage, it’s critical for companies to ensure that all drivers are properly trained on how to operate specific equipment. Maintaining the vehicle can also help reduce the risk of malfunction and resulting accidents.

3. Muscle Injury

Muscle damage, particularly in the lower back, can result from lifting heavy objects, repetitive activities, or other strenuous motions. Professionals can reduce the risk of these accidents by taking care to stretch before, during, and after their shifts. Individuals should also use proper lifting techniques and ask for help when an object is too heavy.

4. Exposure to Toxic Chemicals

Exposure to toxic chemicals can present a wide range of health hazards, including burns, eye damage, and poisoning. Many of these risks can be incurred by inhaling toxic fumes. As such, all employees must be trained on how to properly use these chemicals and how to avoid injuries. Examples of proper workplace habits include working in a well-ventilated area and wearing safety goggles and gloves.  

5. Falling Objects

Laborers who work in warehouses are often in danger of having heavy objects fall from storage areas, posing a risk of head injuries and other damage. If you store large quantities of materials, it’s best to use storage cages to prevent them from falling. These workers should also wear helmets and steel-toed boots for protection.

Specializing in workers’ compensation law, Randy L. Cranford Attorney at Law can provide comprehensive support if you’re dealing with a work-related injury. Based in Thomasville, NC, this attorney has practiced personal injury law for more than three decades. To discuss the specifics of your case and arrange a free consultation, call (336) 476-3115. Visit his website for more information on his services.