6 of the Most Common Workplace Injuries and Illnesses

Getting hurt on the job or finding out that your job has made you sick is an unfortunate feeling. But you can do yourself a favor by heading to the doctor as soon as you experience symptoms. Discovering what is making you sick or causing you pain sooner rather than later is the best approach to medical care.

Read on to learn more about some of the most common workplace injuries and illnesses — and what you should do if you believe you have one.

Dealing with a workplace illness can make every day difficult. With a severe illness, you might find it challenging to get through the workday at all. Enjoying daily activities can become more difficult as you attempt to deal with the aftermath of a serious illness.

1. Strains, Tears, and Strains

Did you know that out of every 10,000 workplace-related illnesses and injuries, more than 46 were linked to strains, tears, and sprains? Many people suffering these injuries noticed a problem after overexerting themselves, and the majority of these strains affected the back. Even though back injuries were the most common, shoulder injuries made up for the most missed time at work.

2. Overexertion

Overexertion can contribute to other, more serious workplace illnesses and injuries. This broad umbrella category refers to situations where the body has been pushed beyond its limitations. Given that it can involve so many potential injuries, it might not always be easy to tell where the line is. Employers should do everything in their power to educate about overexertion to stop it before it happens.

3. Musculoskeletal Disorders

All illnesses and injuries that are musculoskeletal in nature are grouped together in Bureau of Labor Statistics, but they represent more than nearly 35 of every 10,000 incidents on the job. The majority of reports are linked to the back, but they can also include carpal tunnel and rotator cuff disorders.

4. Cuts, Lacerations, and Punctures

While these injuries might get classified as minor in nature initially, they can evolve into serious issues if not properly treated. An open cut could evolve into an infection and keep you out of work. Make sure you get a cut checked out immediately and follow the doctor’s orders when it comes to taking care of it properly.

5. Burns and Scalds

Although most common among those working in food service, burns can happen in various industries. On average, a burn or a scald can take up to eight days for complete healing. For burns that leave serious scars, however, there are often psychological impacts to deal with as well.

6. Skin Disorders and Diseases

Did you know that more than 13 million workers in the United States are exposed to hazardous chemicals that can cause skin disorders and diseases? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, skin disorders and diseases were the most commonly reported work-related illness in 2013. Some of the most common skin disorders and diseases include:

Skin cancers
Skin infections
Skin allergies

Furthermore, there were approximately 200,000 workplace illness cases in 2013 alone. These illnesses are nonfatal and are common in state and local government industries as well as private industries. These illnesses include:

Skin diseases or disorders
Respiratory conditions
Poisonings
Hearing loss
Other illnesses

The top private industries that saw the most work-related illnesses are those industries that produce goods such as natural resources, mining, construction, and manufacturing.

How to Handle a Workplace Injury or Illness

How you react to a workplace injury or illness can have a significant impact on your ability to heal. When it doubt, have a doctor check it out. You might be surprised at how much an accident affects your life. A workplace injury or illness should be treated by a doctor right away. Make sure to keep copies of all your medical records and treatment plans, too.

In addition to following the doctor’s orders for your own healing, you may want to speak with a workers’ compensation attorney about filing a claim. Workers’ compensation insurance is there to help you if your injuries were sustained on the job. If you have been hurt in the workplace, you need to file a workers’ compensation claim sooner rather than later.

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