How Common are Workplace Injuries?

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Having a safe workplace is essential to the well-being of employees and the success of businesses. Despite this, accidents happen, and people do get injured at work. In 2021, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 2.8 million cases of non-fatal workplace injuries and illnesses in the private industry. This translates to 2.8 cases of workplace injuries per 100 full-time employees.

Here’s a look at some of the most recent and common workplace-related injuries to help you better appreciate the importance of obtaining a business insurance policy.

Slip and fall

Statistics from the Health and Safety Executive show that slips and falls are responsible for over a third of all major injuries reported each year. Many potential hazards can cause slips and falls, such as wet floors, loose carpets or flooring, obstacles in walkways, changes in floor level, and poor lighting. Keeping this in mind, it is crucial for business owners to get a worker’s comp quote from multiple companies. This insurance product provides coverage for injured employees who become ill because of slip and fall accidents.

Falling objects

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), being struck by an object is one of the four most common causes of workplace injuries and fatalities. Objects which fall from overhead can do so with enough force to cause serious injury or even kill someone. This includes tools, equipment, materials, and parts left on high shelves or in precarious positions. A worker’s compensation insurance will cover medical expenses and lost wages resulting from falling objects accidents at the workplace.

Repetitive strain injury

A repetitive strain injury is a problem that’s become increasingly common as more and more of us spend our days working at computers. It’s estimated that as many as one in three office workers will suffer from repetitive strain injuries during their careers. It’s often caused by activities that require us to use our hands and wrists in the same way repeatedly, such as typing on a keyboard or using a mouse. Treatment for repetitive strain injury typically includes a combination of rest, ice, and physical therapy. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. Worker’s compensation insurance can cover treatment costs for repetitive strain injuries and any lost wages resulting from time spent away from work.

Inhalation of toxic fumes

Inhalation of toxic fumes is one of the most common workplace injuries. Toxic fumes can come from various sources, including burning fuels, chemicals, and particulate matter. Inhalation of these fumes can cause several health problems, ranging from minor respiratory irritation to more serious conditions like chemical pneumonitis, bronchitis, and cancer. If an employee is exposed to toxic fumes while working in an industrial setting, this exposure would likely be considered a work-related injury and covered under most workers‘ compensation policies.

Final thoughts

Worker’s compensation insurance is important for businesses of all sizes. This insurance product protects employers from financial liability if an employee is injured. It is typically required by law, but it is still a good idea to carry this coverage even if it isn’t. Moreover, getting quotes from different insurers to find the best rates for your business is ideal.