When you think about workplace injuries, you may imagine only catastrophic accidents involving amputations or lacerations. The truth is that all kinds of harm can come from the workplace and result in injuries that impact workers. For example, if you work in an office, you could suffer from repetitive-motion injuries or be in pain as a result of sitting in the same position every day.
It’s important for office workers to know that they may have a right to compensation for work-related injuries. If you’re hurting or unable to work because of tripping, slipping and falling, or suffering another kind of injury in the workplace, it’s important to seek medical care.
Falls are the most common injury
In any workplace, falls are the most common injury. In offices, falls happen when people trip on carpets, slip on wet floors or even when seated and reaching for an item while on an unstable chair. A fall may not seem serious enough to result in a claim, but hitting your head or landing wrong on your wrist could result in traumatic brain injuries or broken bones that require medical care immediately.
Ergonomics matter when you sit for many hours
When you’re sitting for hours on end, ergonomics matter. Your chair should support the natural curvature of your spine and body, so you don’t hurt your back or begin to get headaches from sitting incorrectly. Tension from an incorrect sitting position can lead to long-term pain and muscular injuries. Consider adjusting your computer monitor and using as little force as possible during repetitive tasks like typing or stapling, so you don’t hurt your hands due to overwork.
Whether you sit all day in an office or work out in the field, injuries are possible. Remember to seek treatment if you’re in pain, as your work could be to blame.
