Common workplace hazards that lead to avoidable injuries

Accidents can happen even when all of these regulations are followed. Unfortunately, and more commonly, workplaces are found to have failed in their responsibility to keep workers safe. When a worker is injured because their employer failed to implement and monitor suitable health and safety precautions, they are often entitled to make an accident at work claim for compensation, which can have serious consequences for the business in question. 

There are several common workplace hazards that, if not addressed or mitigated, can lead to injuries. These can have a huge impact on workers’ health, your finances, and family life, which in turn affects attendance at work, job satisfaction and productivity.

What are the most common workplace hazards?

Hazards can exist in any job, from those that are perceived as high-risk (like construction sites or forestry) to those that seem much safer (such as those that take place in offices). While some of the most common hazards are obvious, others are less so. Employers have a responsibility to address all of the following risks to prevent harm to employees.

Slips, trips and falls

These are the most common type of accident at work, according to data from HSE. While it is impossible to remove the risk of a slip, trip or fall completely, a business may be found liable if the accident occurs due to any of the following issues:

• Wet or oily floors from spills
• Cluttered walkways and corridors
• Uneven surfaces or loose mats
• Poor lighting in stairwells or storage areas
• Unsecured cables running across floors

Injuries can range from sprains and bruises to serious fractures, dislocations and head trauma in the most serious cases. Even minor sprains, cuts or bruises can entitle a worker to compensation, and employers have a legal duty to address risk factors such as wet floors or clutter. Practices such as cleaning spills immediately and keeping paths clear are vital for prevention. Employees should receive training on these measures and implementation should be monitored for maximum effectiveness.

Overexertion and ergonomic injuries

Back injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome and neck strain can be caused by the physical demands of a job. They may build up over time or happen suddenly during tasks that involve:

• Lifting, pushing or pulling heavy objects
• Repetitive motions, like typing or assembly line work
• Awkward or poor posture due to a badly designed workstation

Employers have a duty to provide ergonomic workstations, proper training on lifting techniques, and regular breaks to prevent this kind of harm.

Falls from heights

Falling from a ladder, roof, or scaffolding can lead to life-changing injuries and is a leading cause of fatalities at work. These accidents are often due to a lack of proper fall protection equipment, unsafe ladders or inadequate training.

Sometimes, unsecured objects being used at height, such as tools or equipment, can fall and lead to injuries. Falls from height and objects falling from height are two of the most common causes of a head injury at work, which can have serious and permanent side effects, and lead to significant compensation.

These risks are often overlooked, but can occur in any workplace, and employers must address them to avoid legal liability for any accidents that may occur.