A place that you go to earn a living can turn out to be the place that quickly changes your life in a negative way. Workplace injuries are quite common in Ohio, and they often lead to permanent disability, death or, in the best of circumstances, a costly, temporary setback. The best you can do is to prevent them, and that starts by knowing how they come about.
Exposure to something harmful
The first and the most common cause of injuries in the workplace is exposure to something harmful. This can include chemicals, electricity, high levels of noise, radiation and contagious microorganisms. People in construction, healthcare, mining and manufacturing are more exposed to this type of risk than others.
Exposure to harmful substances affects your skin, eyes, ears, nose, throat and respiratory system. Moreover, these hazards can cause burns, fractures and other injuries. Even though most workplaces have strict rules about wearing protective gear while handling hazardous substances, a lack of training or negligence can result in accidents.
Overexertion and bodily reaction
If your job entails a lot of lifting, pushing or pulling, then you are likely to suffer from overexertion injuries. This type of injury is the result of wearing out your muscles, tendons and ligaments. It can also cause harm to your spine, shoulders, neck and arms.
Slips, trips and falls
You can slip and trip without falling, fall from the same level or fall from a high place. Any of these accidents can happen due to slippery surfaces, cluttered floors, changes in elevation without warning signs, stairs without handrails, etc. Most people who file for workers’ compensation benefits in Ohio do it because of this type of work accident. It’s sudden, but the damage is quite significant.
It’s important to understand that, as per Ohio laws, your employer is responsible for providing a safe and healthy workplace for you. However, you also have a role in ensuring your own safety. By being aware of common workplace injuries and taking necessary precautions, you can help prevent accidents and protect yourself from harm while on the job.
