Workplace injuries are not only inconvenient and costly for the Employer due to lost workdays, but these injuries have a domino impact on the Employee’s lifestyle and financial stability. Even though Workers’ Compensation programs are in place, it is estimated that 50% of the costs of injuries and illnesses are borne by the injured workers.

According to OSHA, more than 4.1 million workers experience a serious job-related illness or injury each year. Employers must take responsibility for improving workplace safety, modifying the environment for ergonomic improvements and supporting employee training.

Top Three Causes of Injury on the Job

Each workplace is unique, which is why the recommendations vary, as they depend on the situation. One of the most effective things that you can do to protect current employees, is to bring in experts to assist in identifying potential areas of issue.  Management, outside experts and employees working together can solve problems before injuries occur.  Employees should be trained regarding postures and positions to avoid – as well as which ones to utilize.  Additionally, employees should always have Prior-to-Hire Assessments (post-offer, pre-hire) during their application and hiring process to ensure they have the physical capabilities needed for the job duties.  Injured employees, as well, should always have Return-to-Work Functional Capacity Assessments to confirm they still have the physical capabilities to do that work.  And if they fall short, a pathway for them to eventually achieve that level can be created.

These are the most common causes of injury on the job:

1. Overexertion: As the leading cause of a disabling injury, overexertion includes injuries that occur from repeated carrying, lifting, pulling, pushing, throwing, or holding.
2. Trips, Slips, & Falls: Fall accidents are another common cause of injury as a result of wet surfaces, improper flooring traction, obstructed views, clutter on the flooring, icy pavement, or even wrinkled carpet.
3. Contact with Objects: This category includes injuries that happen when an employee is struck by an object, caught in collapsing material, struck against an object, or caught in equipment. Usually the objects swing, slip, fall, roll, slide, or fly and of course can cause serious injury when coming in contact with a person.

All of these workplace injuries have an effect on productivity, absenteeism, and the cost of Workers’ Compensation claims for the Employer.  Additionally, it is important to consider the physical pain, the medical complications, the decreased productivity, and the absentee issues for the Employee.  It is also important to remember the fact that the Employee will carry a significant portion of the costs of that injury.

At KEY Functional Assessments Network, we are here to help with the reduction of workplace injuries through the implementation of Pre-Employment and Work Ability Assessments. The right safety and prevention programs reduce the risk of injury on the job, which in turn saves employers and employees money as a result of the cost of those injuries.