What Are The Most Common Causes of Accidents in the Workplace?
Whilst the number of accidents at work has continued to drop considerably over the past century, accidents at work can never be eliminated entirely. If you do fall foul of negligence which causes you to have an accident or injury at work, then you may be in a position to make an accident at work legal claim.
At Thompson & Co Solicitors, we assist with workplace accident claims, especially those affecting clients in Newcastle, Sunderland and the North East – but also across the UK. We offer expert guidance to help you cope with the aftermath of a workplace accident, ensuring you get the necessary legal help to get justice.
Common Causes of Workplace Accidents
Overexertion and Repetitive Stress Injuries
These work-related accidents occur when employees do repetitive tasks requiring much physical activity. Overexertion and repetitive stress injuries (RSIs) lead to injury accumulation over time. Root causes of this type of injury include:
Heavy lifting: Lifting heavy objects daily can cause back, shoulder, and arm discomfort in workers who perform physically demanding professions. Over time, this can result in serious injuries, including muscle tears and ruptured discs.
Repetitive tasks: In offices where the employee performs repetitive motions like typing or using hand tools, they often acquire this type of injury. This may eventually cause the tendons, nerves and muscles to deteriorate, resulting in conditions like tendinitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and trigger finger.
Improper ergonomics: Having improper workstations causes strained postures, which can result in neck and back strain.
Transportation Incidents
Company drivers are prone to road traffic accidents. These accidents may lead to fatalities and serious injuries, impacting a company’s productivity.
Combined mechanical failure and human error can lead to traffic accidents. Frequent causes of transportation accidents include:
Distracted Driving: Distracted drivers are more susceptible to car accidents. This includes initiating activities like using mobile phones, eating, or having a low presence of mind.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Irregular maintenance tends to cause mechanical failure. Therefore, businesses should perform prompt inspections and maintenance on their company vehicles.
Inadequate Training: Workers not properly trained to operate automobiles can be involved in traffic accidents. In addition to driving skills, training should cover awareness of current weather and emergencies.
Exposure to Harmful Substances or Environments
Chemical-related industries often expose their workers to harmful substances and other hazards. Exposed workers could encounter the following:
Chemicals: Workers in the chemical industry frequently encounter hazardous substances like insecticides, industrial solvents, and cleaning agents. Skin irritation is one of the short-term health repercussions, whereas cancer and respiratory issues are the long-term effects.
Asbestos: Lung conditions, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer, may develop from inhaling asbestos fibres. Construction workers are more likely to get these illnesses, which may take years to manifest.
Extreme Temperatures: Employees assigned to work in extremely hot or cold conditions also fall into this category. Those working in industries exposed to very low temperatures are susceptible to developing hypothermia, while those working in construction sites can acquire heat stroke or dehydration.
Accidents at Work Solicitors with Thompson & Co
If you or someone you know has been involved in a workplace accident, seeking legal advice is the next wise step. At Thompson & Co Solicitors, we provide knowledgeable advice for people claiming workplace accidents, particularly in Newcastle, Sunderland, and across the North East. With our no win no fee accident at work claims, we can work with you to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.