Watch Out! Prevent Work-Related Injuries

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, work related injuries totaled 4 million cases last year alone. While this number is the lowest it's been in some years, such an astounding statistic warrants that we all do our part to keep each other safe at the office.

Believe it or not, sprains and strains are the most common workplace injury. Symptoms include back pain, wrist pain, and neck pain and are generally caused by repetitive movement. Typing, filing and strain associated with office procedures is a common part of our jobs, so let's learn how to protect ourselves:

Plan

If you're a manager, your first line of defense should be planning. Take a look around the office and really analyze the equipment, furniture, fixtures and foundation. Look for areas where the floor is uneven or slippery. Look for loose pieces of carpet or any other hazard you can find. Take steps to improve these areas and prevent accidents from occurring.

Ergo-Necessities

Stop ignoring the power of ergonomics. Ergo-chairs and other office equipment can prevent a lot of common office injuries. Purchase everything from ergonomic desks to footrests. Here are some quick rules for going ergonomic:

• Position monitor to avoid glare

• Keep monitor a minimum of 20 inches away

• Position the monitor upward but below line of sight

• Do not use task lighting

• Position keyboard a little below elbows at an angle that allows your wrists to stay straight when slightly reclined

• Put mouse on same level as keyboard

• Use arm rests, lumbar support and adjust your chair so that your feet touch the floor

• Use a foot rest and move the position of your feet often

Lifting

We may not work in a warehouse, but that doesn't mean we won't be required to lift a few boxes of brochures or invoices occasionally. It's important to learn proper lifting techniques no matter where you work. Here are a few tips:

• Keep the box or heavy item close to your body

• Feet shoulder width apart

• Bend knees and keep back straight

• Tighten your stomach muscles

• Lift with your legs

• If it's too much, ask for help

Shoes

Open toed shoes are often a hazard no matter what type of business you work for. Exposing your toes can lead to painful injuries to your feet, so try to wear a comfortable shoe that covers your entire foot. Something as simple as kicking a file cabinet when you walk by can have you out of the office for days.

Falls

Falls are quite common in the workplace as well. Whether there's a chair obstructing a walkway or a slippery bathroom floor, accidents can be costly. Have someone check areas like stairways, bathrooms and kitchens often for any potential hazards. Instruct employees to keep chairs, books, cords and files out of walkways and aisles.

Preventing accidents and injuries is really just a matter of due diligence. It's easy to get complacent, so it's always a good idea to have designated people in the office responsible for the upkeep of potential hazards. Check problem areas often and teach employees to be vigilant. Talk with your HR department for specific safety guidelines at your company.