An unexpected workplace accident can leave an employee with permanent, long-term health consequences. Since these devastating injuries likely need life-long medical attention, expenses such as hospital bills, diminished earning capacity, mental health counseling, assisted living care or physical therapy quickly add up.
Knowing common workplace accidents that cause permanent harm and ways to avoid occupational injuries may help employees have a safer working environment.
Common workplace accidents
A permanent injury is ongoing mental or physical damage that affects someone’s range of activity and limits their ability to work for the rest of their life. Many types of workplace accidents can leave an employee seriously injured. Some common accidents that lead to permanent harm include:
- Electrical accidents
- Explosions
- Heavy machinery incidents
- Falls from high places
- Motor vehicle crashes
- Power tool accidents
These job-related accidents can cause permanent injuries such as severe burns, eye injuries, amputations, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord paralysis and more. If someone permanently loses the use of a body part because of a workplace accident, the state’s workers’ compensation laws entitle them to potentially receive disability benefits.
Avoiding workplace injuries
Employers can reduce occupational accidents by enacting and following proper procedures for wearing personal protective equipment, handling biological hazards, dealing with chemicals or operating heavy machinery. Companies can educate employees on safety standards. Monthly vehicle inspections and repairs should occur. Management should provide clear and organized instructions so employees do not skip steps or take shortcuts at work.
Employees hurt at work should seek immediate medical attention for their injuries to minimize the risk of permanent health damage.