When you think of the phrase “hurt on the job,” you probably think of injuries in construction, agriculture, and other high-risk industries where workers deal with heavy machinery and lifting heavy objects.
The truth is that accidents can happen in any workplace, no matter how safe the environment may seem on the surface. If you wish to keep yourself protected from elbow injuries and other injuries while on the job, it’s essential to follow these six recommendations.
What is a common type of work-related injury?
Musculoskeletal injuries are common in people who get hurt on the job. Various parts of the body can be affected by these injuries, including muscles, bones, joints, ligaments or tendons. They can also affect people’s ability to do work and take part in social roles. Musculoskeletal injuries cause different symptoms. The symptoms of musculoskeletal injuries can consist of:
- Swelling.
- Inflammation.
- Limited range of motion.
- Limited or total loss of function.
- An inability to put weight on the injured area.
How to avoid getting hurt on the job
- Don’t ignore safety procedures — All workplaces have safety procedures, whether they’re written down or passed down from one employee to another. If you’re ignoring these rules on purpose or accidentally, you could be putting yourself in danger, as well as your co-workers.
- Use eye protection — If you’re performing any work that could cause debris to fly into your eyes, be sure you wear proper eye protection. Getting your work done faster isn’t worth damaging your vision. Take every safety precaution you can think of, and wear protective eyewear whenever necessary.
- Avoid using faulty equipment — Anytime you use equipment at work, you risk using equipment that hasn’t been adequately maintained or isn’t in good condition. Whether it’s power tools, vehicles or protective gear, it’s important to avoid using anything that isn’t up to code. Every time you use faulty equipment, you run a higher risk of getting hurt on the job.
- Use ladders properly — It’s sad but true. Falling is one of the most common causes of workplace injuries. Be sure you know how to use a ladder correctly and that your co-workers know how as well.
- Pay attention to the details — Everyone makes mistakes, but it’s how you handle them that counts. Thinking you can get through a construction job without paying attention to detail is a quick way to hurt yourself or someone else. Watch out for each other and make safety one of your highest priorities, no matter what kind of job you’re doing.
- Don’t lose your concentration — When you’re moving around, it’s easy to lose your focus and concentration. When you lose focus on what you’re doing, accidents are more likely to happen. One of the best ways to ensure that you don’t get hurt is to remain mentally alert. Staying sharp and active can also help your injuries heal faster than expected if you are hurt.
Find a physical therapy specialist who can help if you do get hurt on the job
Have you experienced being hurt on the job? If you suffer from persistent pain because of a work-related injury, Excel Sports & Physical Therapy can provide a free screening to answer your questions and discuss treatment options. In addition, our therapists can develop an individualized physical therapy plan designed to address your particular needs, decrease your pain and prevent it from recurring.
Get in touch with our team if you’re dealing with an injury from getting hurt on the job.
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