Starting A New Warehouse Job? 4 Workplace Hazards You Should Be Aware Of
If you're about to start working in a warehouse, you're going to want to avoid common workplace accidents. Workplace injuries can leave you unable to work and may leave you with permanent disabilities. Here are four common injuries that you should be aware of.
Slip or Trip and Falls
Slip or trip and fall accidents can happen anywhere. Whether it's tripping over a piece of equipment or slipping on a spill that wasn't cleaned up properly, this type of workplace accident can cause serious injuries. One type of unexpected injury that can result from this type of accident is the reaction injury. Reaction injuries occur when you try to brace yourself against injury and you end up injuring your arm, leg or ankle. To avoid this type of injury, try to watch where you are and be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Overexertion
If you're going to be working in a warehouse, you may overexert yourself. Overexertion can cause injuries to your muscles, especially when your job requires you to move your muscles or joints in ways that they're not used to. Repetitive motions can also lead to overexertion, which can result in workplace injuries. One way to avoid overexertion is to stretch your muscles from time to time while you're at work. Limbering up during work can help keep your muscles and joints moving properly, which can help reduce injuries.
Falling Objects
Head injuries caused by falling objects are another common injury encountered in warehouse workplaces. You can avoid this type of injury by wearing the required safety equipment – including your hard hat – at all times. Wearing your hard hat will help protect your head from potential injuries.
Workplace Violence
No one wants to think about workplace violence. Unfortunately, nearly 2 million American workers are the victim of workplace violence every year. Workplace violence doesn't have to involve physical injuries. It also includes harassment, intimidation and other threatening behavior that makes you fear for your physical or emotional well-being. If you feel threatened by a co-worker, it's important that you report the threat to your employer or human resource office.
If you're going to be working in a warehouse, you need to protect yourself from work-related injuries. The information provided here will help you identify, and avoid, some workplace accidents. If you are injured on the job, be sure to report the incident and then speak to a worker's compensation attorney like one from Salley Law Firm PA as soon as possible.