Do most occupational injuries occur because of performing a task incorrectly?

Many of us think that workplace injuries happen because workers make mistakes and perform tasks incorrectly. However, when we look at an individual incident more closely, it becomes clear that different factors contribute to occupational injuries. When a worker suffers from workplace injuries, it not only impacts the injured worker but also his/her family, co-workers and the employer. Therefore, prevention in occupational injuries are crucial in helping to address these issues with the goal of improving workplace environment.

Top 4 causes of occupational injuries

1. Overexertion
Overexertion happens with lifting, pushing, holding, carrying or throwing objects. Examples of these injuries include:

• Soft tissue injuries: injuries to ligaments, tendons and muscles
• Back injuries: Pulled, strained back muscles or damage to the spinal cord such as a slipped disc
• Heat stroke: the most common among workers doing heavy manual labour work outdoors To prevent injuries caused by overexertion, be sure to provide yourself with ergonomic equipment and be properly trained about safety involving physical tasks.

To prevent injuries caused by overexertion, be sure to provide yourself with ergonomic equipment and be properly trained about safety involving physical tasks.

2. Fall on the same level or fall to a lower level

Same-level falls can occur anywhere at a workplace. For example, loose wires, wet floors or even a drawer left open can cause people to trip or slip. Falling from a height, such as ladder or a roof to a lower surface can cause major occupational injuries or even death. To prevent injuries caused by falling from height or slipping, protect yourself by providing with the right kind of equipment and fall protection gear.

3. Struck by an object

Being struck by a falling object or a piece of equipment is one of the leading causes of death in the construction industry, and other industries aren’t immune from such accidents. Objects that fall, roll, slip and swing can do serious damage to a person. Construction workers hit by building materials or loggers struck by trees- all have high fatality rate but are all preventable. Paying attention is vitally important to prevent occupational injuries, here are some examples:

• Check vehicles before use to make sure they are in safe operation condition
• Securely and neatly store loose materials
• Store heavy objects close to the floor
• Open one drawer at a time to prevent a tip-over

4. Repetitive motions involving micro tasks

Occupational injuries is usually associated with repetitive movements such as typing and any part of the body can be affected. It affects the tendons and muscles of the fingers, hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, back and neck.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain
• Muscle weakness
• Swelling
• Numbness
• Restricted mobility of the joint

Occupations at risk include:

• Office work such as typing
• Process work such as packing and assembly line
• Piece work such as sewing
• Manual work such as bricklaying and carpentry

If you have suffered from a workplace injury, you can get your treatment claimed through ICWA and workers compensation at Lakeside Chiropractic which requires approval from your GP and a case worker. Just bring us your case number and we can claim payment for you.

At Lakeside Chiropractic, our experienced chiropractors are well prepared to deal with patients presenting with any form of pain. We provide massage therapy, manual adjusting, cold laser therapy, exercise programs and advice that may help to reduce your pain and manage your condition. We look for the root cause of the problem and try correct this.

If you would like to discuss any concerns, have any enquires or wish to book an appointment; feel free to contact one of our friendly staff on 9300 0095 or visit our website at www.lakesidechiro.com.au.