Home » Blog » 4 Basic Ways To Prevent Workplace Injury

4 Basic Ways To Prevent Workplace Injury

If work isn’t done safely, it can put a lot of strain on your body in both the short and long-term. And all types of jobs – even desk jobs – can lead to injuries. Taking basic steps can help you prevent a workplace injury.

Below we will provide four basic precautions you can take to reduce the chances of an injury: lifting things safely, preventing repetitive motion injuries, taking short breaks, and staying healthy.

1. Lift Things Safely

Back injuries are the most common type of workplace injury – often caused by lifting something. When you lift something heavy be sure to keep these three tips in mind:

  • Bend at your knees, not at your waist
  • Keep your back straight
  • Test the object first. If it’s too heavy, get help.

2. Prevent Repetitive Motion Injuries

Doing the same activity over and over again (ex: typing or working on an assembly line) causes repetitive motion injuries, which are becoming more common in the workplace! To prevent repetitive motion injuries keep these tips in mind:

  • Take the time to arrange your equipment to fit your body
  • Don’t try to adjust your body to work with equipment that’s not set up right for you
  • Adjust your chair to your height
  • Put the tools and equipment you use where you can easily reach them

3. Take Short Breaks

Do you take breaks at work? Even a short 5-minute break can help you increase your concentration and reduce stress! Take short breaks often to stretch or go for a walk.

4. Stay Healthy

Taking measures, even outside of the office, can help you decrease your chances of a workplace injury. In fact, a strong, healthy body can help protect you from injuries on the job. Stay in shape by:

  • Eating healthy
  • Getting active
  • Watching your weight

This information on preventing injuries at work was adapted from materials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Available here.

 

Stay safe at work! Share any tips or suggestions you have in the comment box below.

You May Also Like…