Everyone knows that workplace injuries happen, but are you aware of how common they are? The numbers may surprise you. For example, an employee gets hurt on the job every seven seconds.
Occupational injuries are far too common in the United States. All of these injuries are preventable but still occur. It is helpful to understand the data about occupational incidents so you can inform yourself and be safer.
The frequency of workplace accidents
Here are some staggering statistics from the National Safety Council that showcase the severity of the problem:
- There are 510 workplace injuries per hour
- There are 12,300 workplace injuries per day
- There are 86,500 workplace injuries per week
- There are 4,500,000 workplace injuries per year
Because of these injuries, 104,000,000 is the number of days lost because of work injuries in 2016. Not only do workplace accidents hurt workers, but they also impact the economy.
Occupations with the most injuries
The top five industries that have the highest number of accidents include the following:
- Service (including law enforcement and firefighters)
- Shipping/transportation
- Production/manufacturing
- Maintenance, installation and repair
- Construction
If you work in one of these areas, you may be at a higher risk of getting hurt. But workplace injuries can happen in any industry.
Common injuries
Strains, sprains and tears are the most prevalent occupational injuries. After that, it is general pain and soreness. Finally, cuts and lacerations are the third most common.
Causes of accidents
These are the most common reasons workers sustain injuries:
- Overexertion: Lowering or lifting objects and making repetitive motions
- Contact with equipment and objects: struck by, caught in between and crushed by equipment and objects
- Slips, trips and falls: Falls at the same and different levels
Your employer is ultimately responsible for making sure your workplace is free of hazards.
Knowing the potential risks of workplace injuries is the first step to being safe. If you suffer an injury because of your job, you may be eligible for compensation benefits.