According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 2.9 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses were reported by private industry employers in 2016, a rate of 2.9 cases per 100 full-time workers. Below are some of the most common hazards in industrial and office workplace environments.

1. HAZARDS IN THE WORKPLACE
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 2.9 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses
were reported by private industry employers in 2016, a rate of 2.9 cases per 100 full-time workers. Below are
some of the most common hazards in industrial and office workplace environments.
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2. INDUSTRIAL/JOB-SITE INJURIES
These can occur on construction sites, in
warehouses and on other workplace premises
where a lot of physical activity takes place. Those
who are injured on a job site should take note of the
environment at the time of the accident; it can
change quickly if managers try to cover up evidence
of negligence or if third parties who may have had a
hand in the accident try to avoid liability in hopes of
avoiding a civil lawsuit
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3. FALLS
Falls can occur through wall openings, holes
in the floor and from ladders, scaffolds, roofs,
and unprotected edges at height. Years of
research reveal that the proper use of
guardrails, fall arrest systems, safety nets,
covers, restraint harnesses and safety
training can significantly lower workplace fall-
related injuries and deaths.
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4. STRUCK BY AN OBJECT
Workers can be hit by a vehicle (like a forklift) or
by flying, falling, swinging or rolling objects.
Aggressive worker training can decrease the
incidence of these accidents. Workers should
never place themselves between moving and
fixed objects. They should always wear high-
visibility clothing (or vests) and be conscious of
suspended objects which might be above them
as they work.
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5. ELECTROCUTIONS
Power lines, improper grounding, faulty power
cords and incorrect use of equipment are the
most common causes of workplace
electrocutions. Protective equipment must
always be used when working with electric
power tools. Employers should keep a complete
list of all electrical hazards and prominently post
warning signs to alert workers of these risks.
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6. CAUGHT IN/BETWEEN
Workers can be seriously injured when
caught in or compressed by equipment or
objects. They may be struck or crushed by
collapsing structures or trenches. Continued
safety instruction to make workers more
aware of their surroundings and how to use
approved safety equipment are the best
remedies.
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7. OFFICE HAZARDS
Business offices also have safety
vulnerabilities. Many office workers are
injured every year while on the job. Ongoing
workplace safety programs and safety
awareness are essential to protect office
workers. Below are a few of the more
prominent sources of office injuries.
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8. SLIPPING AND FALLING
Incorrect ways to reach for high objects are the
No. 1 cause of office slips and falls. Workers
should always use a ladder and know how to do
so safely. Exposed wiring on floors, upturned
carpet edges, floors that are wet or dusty, and
clutter next to desks and near traffic areas can
also cause injuries due to slips/trips and falls. All
obstacles of any kind need to be off the floor or
away from common traffic areas.
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9. STACKING AND LIFTING
Most offices have stacks of file boxes
and other materials. But an accidental
“bump” can cause them to come
crashing down on a fellow worker.
Improper stacking of boxes or other
materials can also encourage improper
lifting and cause a back injury.
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10. REPETITIVE MOTIONS
Many office jobs involve endless hours at a
computer, with little movement beyond manipulating
a mouse or stroking a keyboard. This can result in
repetitive-motion injuries such as carpel tunnel
syndrome. Managers and workers must use
ergonomic tools and encourage more active
workplace habits (like periodically standing and
stretching) to counter these office workplace
hazards.
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11. FIRE HAZARDS
Preventing fires and eliminating fire sources
should be ongoing. Many office materials are
quite combustible. Some even emit toxic fumes
when burning. Habitual monitoring of extension
cord integrity and electrical wiring helps eliminate
fire dangers. And all office workers should be
trained in the use of fire extinguishers and the
location of exits.
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12. IF YOU WERE INJURED AT WORK
If you or a loved one has been injured at work, the
attorneys at Kaplan Lawyers PC can help you
recover all damage compensation that is rightfully
due you.
Please contact us to arrange a free consultation,
or give us a call at (516) 399-2364.
CALL US AT: 516-399-2364