While it may seem like a safer career choice compared to industrial jobs, there are still risks associated with office roles. From postural problems to repetitive strain injuries, office workers are at risk of various hazards as a result of heavy lifting, poor ergonomics, electrical shocks from IT equipment and even the occasional burn from a spilt coffee. These are some of the most common work accidents, and what to do if an incident occurs.
In this article we look at some of the more common work accidents, and what you can do if an accident does happen to you.
Comparing Law Firms
Over the years i’ve had all kinds of jobs from being a jet ski instructor and a swimming coach, to working in a bar and being an office worker. I’ve seen accidents of all kinds, some more avoidable than others, and some a lot more serious than others. However, no matter how careful we are, accidents will happen from time to time.
So, if an accident does happen where you get injured and you want to make a claim, what do you do next? Of course, this is after you have got medical attention – if needed!
Navigating the world of claims and trying to get compensation for something that wasn’t your fault can be hard – and pretty intimidating too! Even trying to find the right law firm for your situation can be difficult – which is where Compare Compensation Claims comes in. It’s a website that helps you navigate this tricky area with more confidence and knowledge.
You can choose to speak to someone on the phone, via online chat, or even via WhatsApp to get professional advice and to compare law firms. From personal injury and financial mis-selling, to professional negligence and even personal disputes.
You simply browse their directory to find and compare top-rated injury law firms to find the one that best suits you. You can filter by name, location and even a rating out of 10. Once you’ve decided on the firm that sounds right for you, click the ‘make a claim’ button and request a call to find out more.
Did you know, an experienced claims company can also assist you with any care and recovery needs you might have. Including access to rehabilitation services. It really is worth doing to get all the help you need in your recovery journey.
Common Work Place Injuries
RSI
RSI, or repetitive strain injury, is common in work accidents for office workers and it can be tough to diagnose and manage. Activities like typing, writing or using tools and machinery might seem like a harmless action but they can cause small tears to the muscles and tendons in the body, which leads to inflammation and pain when these actions are repeated. Repetitive strain injury can be avoided through regular breaks and making sure that the equipment you use is suited to your body, such as setting desks and computer screens to the right height for you to minimise awkward movements. Regular movement, such as taking breaks to walk around, can also help by switching up the muscles you use throughout the day.
Back Pain
Sitting at a desk all day or lifting heavy boxes can put strain on your back. It’s common for office workers to suffer from work accidents such as – slipped discs, pinched nerves at the base of the neck, or lower back strain from sitting awkwardly. Or from sitting in uncomfortable chairs. If this occurs over a long period of time, it can cause chronic pain and have serious longterm consequences. Inactivity is one of the primary causes of back strain, according to chiropractor James Shorthouse.
So taking regular breaks can help to strengthen your back and stretch the muscles. Sit-stand desks can also be beneficial in keeping you active and preventing back pain. Although the sit-standing desks are becoming more and more of a trend, they’re nothing new – Winston Churchill worked from a standing desk and is just one noteworthy sit-stand desk user.
Eye Strain
As anyone who’s spent long periods of time staring at a computer screen will know. Eye strain can be painful and can lead to headaches and migraines. The reason for eye strain is because staring at a computer causes our blink rate to decrease. This then prevents the eyes from staying fully hydrated. Dry eyes can cause blurred vision, fatigue and discomfort, as well as vision problems in the long term.
However, it’s also partly due to the fact we’re not meant to focus on one thing so hard, for so long. If you can’t leave your computer. or desk, try looking around for a few minutes instead. Focus on objects at differing lengths – close up, far away, as well as middle ground.
Office workers should make sure they are always working with adequate lighting, that the angle and distance of their screen is between 50-60cm from the eyes, and that the brightness is set properly to avoid squinting at the screen.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome causes the median nerve to become pinched and compressed. This nerve runs from the wrist to the hand and can cause incredible pain. The pain occurs when it becomes pinched through repeatedly bending the wrist or using vibrating power tools on a regular basis.
Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause pain and discomfort, as well as tingling and numbness in the hand and fingers. If you’re prone to carpal tunnel, or complete a job that puts you at risk, wrist rests can help to reduce the strain. Regular stretches to the fingers and hand, and breaks every 10 to 15 minutes can also help.
Neck Pain
Neck pain comes from poor posture which can put strain on the back and neck muscles. Unfortunately, neck injuries are common within a work environment. From desk injuries to slips and falls, and poor ergonomic office equipment. These can all cause damage to the soft tissues of the neck, strained ligaments and ripped muscles.
To prevent neck pain, make sure you stretch regularly and move at least every 20 minutes. You could also make sure you have ergonomic office equipment in place. This will help you to avoid unnecessary strain to the delicate muscles in the neck and upper back.
Final Thoughts
Work accidents might be a common occurrence, but they should not be taken lightly. Over time, these injuries and strains can become chronic and harder to treat. So avoiding them and treating them as soon as they appear will help to prevent any long-term issues.
If you suspect you’ve developed a workplace injury, seek professional advice immediately. Speak to your employer about the equipment you’ll need to set up your work environment to avoid issues developing in the future.
FAQ’s
What Are The Most Common Accidents At Work?
Accidents such as – slips, trips and falls account for more than 1/3 of all injuries in the workplace.
What To Do If An Employee Has An Accident At Work
If an employee have an accident at work, you must report it, whether it’s a simple injury, or something more serious.
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