Workers’ compensation is a vital form of insurance that protects employees when they become injured or ill due to work-related conditions. Each state in the US has its own specific laws governing how workers’ compensation works, but there are certain commonalities that exist across all states. In this article, we will take a look at the most common causes of workers’ compensation claims and what employers can do to reduce the risk of such incidents occurring.
One of the most commonly reported causes for workers’ compensation claims is slips, trips and falls. These accidents often occur when surfaces are wet from cleaning or spillages, when items are left unsecured and obstruct walkways, or in areas with poor lighting or inadequate signage. Employers must take steps to ensure that their workplace is clean and well-maintained to prevent accidents from occurring.
Repetitive stress injuries are another major cause of workers’ compensation claims. These injuries are caused by consistent strain on muscles or joints in the same position over an extended period of time. This is often due to using particular tools or machines without proper safety equipment or training. Employers should take care to ensure their staff are properly trained on how to use any necessary tools, as well as provided with the right protective equipment and encouraged to take regular breaks throughout their shift.
For those who drive vehicles for work purposes, whether they are company-owned cars, vans or trucks, there is always a risk of being involved in an accident while out on the roads that could result in injury or illness requiring medical attention. Employers should ensure that any vehicle used by staff members is serviced regularly and fit for purpose before it is taken out on the road. They must provide any necessary driving safety training where appropriate, to minimize potential risks of motor vehicle accidents occurring on company time.
Employees who come into contact with hazardous substances as part of their job role could suffer serious health issues if they are not working safely within industry standards and regulations laid out by national government bodies such as the OSHA (the Occupational Safety & Health Administration). It is important employers adequately manage their staff when it comes to handling hazardous substances by providing access to appropriate protective equipment at all times while they are engaged in work activities involving hazardous materials.
The final major cause for workers’ compensation claims occurs during manual labor activities such as lifting heavy objects incorrectly or operating machinery without adequate safety precautions in place. Both scenarios would lead to employee injuries being sustained, which could require medical attention resulting in potential lost earnings due to time off work needed for recovery followed by rehabilitation exercises.
By having an understanding of the most common causes of workers’ compensation claims as outlined in this article and taking the necessary actions to reduce potential risks of such incidents occurring, employers can not only help protect their employees from harm but also save their businesses money in the long run.
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