Avoiding Workplace Injuries
Tips for Employers and Employees

• The most common injuries are simple muscle strains such as the back and shoulders, minor abrasions and cuts, and psychological injuries resulting from overworking or stress.

• But more severe injuries take place also.  In fact, a handful of job-related fatalities occur every day.

• As a business owner or employer, you bear the responsibility of keeping your employees as safe as possible.

• While there is no way to prevent all workplace injuries from taking place, certain measures can go a long way in reducing the number of injuries, and also their severity.
  

• Furthermore, taking proactive steps to reduce workplace injuries will help shield you from potential legal action when an injury does occur.  So what can you do?

• Educate – Perhaps the most important thing an employer can do is to continually educate their employees about workplace injuries and dangers.

• This should dangers that are relevant to the specific job, as well as dangers that crop across all work environments, such as overworking, eye strain from computer screens, back problems from lifting heavy things, etc.

• Make it a point to set time aside just for the education of your employees.  This will help them understand that safety is important to you, while also reducing your employer liability.

• Establish Procedures – It is also a good idea to establish written rules and procedures regarding workplace safety.  This way, if an incident does happen, the employer has the opportunity to point out that the correct workplace procedure was not being followed, if this is the case.

• In the event of legal action, this will go a long way in protecting you as a business owner, especially if you provide education with your written materials.

• Keep Documentation – When someone gets injured on the job, it is a good idea to document the incident and have the employee fill out appropriate paperwork.  If necessary, send the employee to the doctor and keep a copy of this documentation as well.

• If legal action does take place, it is important to show the details of exactly what happened.  If necessary, have witnesses sign off on the documentation.

• Know Your Limits – As an employee, perhaps the biggest thing you can do to ensure your own safety and prevent workplace injuries is to simply know your limits.

• If a situation makes you uncomfortable in the workplace, then it is important to vocalize this to your supervisor.  If you feel the need to avoid lifting heavy objects, simply inform your boss of this need.  If your chair hurts your back while you work, then request a new chair.

• A smart employer will listen to your needs and take appropriate action – but only if you speak up.

• contractor insurance
• small business insurance
• workmans comp insurance
• employer health insurance
• professional employer organization
• contributory negligence
• employment law

Similar to employer insurance, employees also have responsibilities and rights.  To learn more about this, check out the employee rights section.

And don't forget to check out the various employment background screening sections, especially if you are interested in federal government jobs.