A workplace injury can seriously disrupt the life of an employee. If an injury happens to you at your workplace, it’s important to know what to do. If you’ve been injured on the job, this article will provide the information you need about seeking medical attention for your injury.
Employers can find more information about our occupational health services here.
How common are workplace injuries and illnesses?
In the United States, a workplace injury occurs every seven seconds. This added up to 2.8 million nonfatal injuries and illnesses in 2018. Nearly one-third of these injuries and illnesses caused an employee to miss one or more days of work.
What are the most common workplace injuries?
The most common injuries that cause employees to take time off work fall into three categories:
Overexertion-related pain: Affecting 28 out of 10,000 full-time workers, overexertion was the number one cause of workplace injuries requiring time off work. Repetitive movements or heavy lifting can cause damage to your muscles and tendons, resulting in short-term or long-term pain.
The most commonly reported injury in this category is pain from a back injury. Pain in the neck, shoulders, and other areas can also occur, depending on the movement that caused the injury. Repetitive strain injuries include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and bursitis. These injuries benefit from treatment and rest.
Sprains, strains, and tears: Falls, slips, and trips represent 27% of workplace injuries that require time off work. The most common injuries related to these incidents are sprains, strains, and tears.
Cuts, lacerations, and punctures: Contact with objects and equipment in the workplace was the cause of 26% of workplace injuries in 2017. Typically resulting in cuts, lacerations or punctures.
How can I help prevent workplace injuries?
Injuries can happen in any workplace. You can help prevent injuries at work by following all safety procedures, using personal protective equipment (PPE), and talking to your employer about any situations that make you feel uncomfortable.
Those in high-risk occupations should exercise extra caution on the job. The five industries with the most workplace injuries are:
- Service (including police and firefighters)
- Transportation and shipping
- Production and manufacturing
- Installation, maintenance, and repair
- Construction
Particularly in these and other high-risk jobs, you can help ensure your safety by avoiding mind-altering substances, getting enough rest, and staying home if you are not in fit condition to work.
What should I do if I get injured on the job?
If you are injured on the job, your first action should always be to seek medical attention. In a medical emergency, seek first aid or visit the nearest hospital. For non-emergency injuries, visit your doctor or a Physicians Immediate Care location near you.
Some employers require that before you seek medical attention, you notify your supervisor about the incident and your injury as soon as you can. Follow the instructions of your physician and your employer. Return to your medical provider for recommended checkups and follow your physician’s advice to help ensure a speedy recovery and return to work.
Why should I choose Physicians Immediate Care for my workplace injury?
At Physicians Immediate Care, your recovery and comfort is our top priority. In addition to providing quality healthcare, our knowledgeable medical team will provide clear instructions during each phase of your care. We ease the stress of the workers’ compensation process so you can focus on getting better.
Enjoy easy access to our team of experienced health care providers without changing your busy schedule. With short wait times and extended hours, seeing a medical provider at Physicians Immediate Care is easy. Just choose from more than 40 locations and walk-in or reserve a time online. For professional, convenient care and expert advice, visit Physicians Immediate Care today.