While it would be impossible to compile a list of every known hazard in the workplace for employers and employees, there are accidents at work which are far more common than others, and are also easily preventable. According to the Health and Safety Executive statistics, in 2009/2010 5.1 million days were lost overall due to workplace injury.
According to Workplace Safety Advice, the highest ranking accidents on their lists were trips, slips and falls, accounting for 4/10 reported incidents. These kinds of accidents are mostly caused by cluttered walkways and communal areas, trailing cables, ice, along with unreported fluid spillages. A vigilant employer in a place of work can check for all these problems, alongside making sure there is always adequate lighting, guard rails and handrails in the workplace. Accident compensation claims for a work related fall or slip could range from hundreds to thousands of pounds depending on the severity of the incident.
Manual handling and lifting accidents are also a big problem and are again easily preventable with training and forethought. Most injuries come from when one person tries to carry an object which is too heavy for them to lift, and/or in an incorrect manner. A load as light of five kilograms can even cause injury if not lifted with the correct techniques. It’s required by law for employers to give out proper training on lifting. There is a large amount of literature available on the government’s Business Link website in regards to lifting practices. Payouts for lifting accidents can go as high as six figures because back and neck injuries can persist over a lifetime so it’s important for employers to put in place the necessary procedures to ensure that their employees don’t suffer an injury.
