How to Prevent Workplace Injuries

Employers bear the responsibility of ensuring that the workplace is a safe environment. This includes implementing rules, regulations, and policies that outline the expected standards of the company. While employees should always observe these guidelines, accidents still happen. Certain preventative measures can help us protect ourselves from workplace injuries.

Here are some common ailments caused from work, tips to avoid them, and the type of treatments available:

• Overexertion injuries

Demanding physical tasks (e.g. lifting/carrying heavy items) require “warming up” and stretching before doing the job. Proper lifting techniques also protect the body. Overexertion of the muscles, bones, and joints can lead to injury. Massage and acupuncture can alleviate pain. Physiotherapy could be prescribed by your physician if you’ve damaged muscles, joints, or ligaments.

• Strains and Sprains

Improper warm-up, ill-fitting footwear, and environmental conditions are some of the reasons for strains or sprains. Protect yourself by wearing proper shoes for your job and preparing your body for the work of the day. Serious cases may require custom orthotics and braces, plus physiotherapy to speed recovery. Even if you work at a desk, take breaks to walk and stretch.

• Trauma

Working conditions involving equipment and machinery make physical trauma accidents more likely. Prevention and work site assessments can help reduce the possibility of harm to workers in the area. Injured patients who have received treatment and rehabilitation may also benefit from functional assessments to determine if they are ready to go back to work

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Repetitive motion can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrists and hands. This challenge is common among office jobs that require long hours at the computer/typing, but arises in other workplace environments. Intermittent stretching and rest helps prevent carpal tunnel. Physiotherapy and other remedies can help alleviate pain and lack of mobility.

Most workplace injuries are preventable and can be avoided with some self-care and safety measures. External factors like weather and faulty machinery can influence the likelihood of physical harm. In the unfortunate event of a workplace injury, seek medical help immediately and pursue physical rehabilitation and pain management.

PARC of Ontario offers therapeutic care for injuries or muscle and joint pain sustained at work. We fit patients with braces and orthotics and provide functional assessment services. Please check our list of centres to schedule an appointment today.