Some of the most common kinds of workplace injuries are sprains and muscle strains sustained on the job. These injuries aren’t life-threatening, obviously, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t serious. They can cost businesses real money in lost productivity and, in some cases, worker’s compensation claims. That’s why safety in the workplace must always be taken seriously by every business.
Sometimes, repetitive job functions cause employees to ignore or forget about common safety measures, leading to injury. Practicing preventative measures daily helps employees avoid painful accidents that require time away from work and potentially lost wages for both the employer and the employee.
To increase workplace safety, WSS encourages all workers to follow smart, preventative measures to avoid strains and sprains on the job. Our occupational medicine professionals constantly stress the importance of prevention because, unlike many illnesses, workplace accidents can almost always be avoided.
Lifting, pushing, and overreaching are the most common causes of strains and sprains. Jobs that require employees to sit, stand, or bend in awkward positions for long periods of time often cause stress and strain on certain muscles. The majority of strains and sprains affect the back, arms, and shoulders, and many of occur due to improper handling of materials.
Here are some important preventive activities that should be standard operating procedure at your workplace:
Keep in mind that it’s important to always take care of your entire body with exercise, proper posture, a sensible diet, and adequate rest. If muscles or ligaments weaken over time from lack of exercise or age, strain or sprains are more likely than if an employee is physically fit.
Workplace Safety Screenings creates customized occupational medicine plans for businesses across the Houston Area to help prevent strains, sprains, and other workplace injuries and illnesses. We keep Houston working! If you’d like a free consultation on how we can help your business eliminate employee injuries and downtime, don’t hesitate to call us now at (855) 974-4960!