Work accidents of all types occur across the country, but some injuries are more common than others, including sprains and strains, punctures and cuts, and contusions. The following are some of the most common injury classifications in workers’ compensation claims.
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A Report Reveals Top Injury Classifications
The Travelers Companies conducted a review of over 1.5 million workers’ compensation claims in 2016, which led to several key findings. The Injury Impact Report revealed that strains and sprains were the most common work injuries, along with the fact that material handling incidents were the leading cause of work-related injuries.
From 2010 to 2014, the top five work-related injuries that developed included strains and sprains at 30%, cuts or punctures at 19%, contusions at 12%, and inflammation and fractures both at 5%.
Small businesses saw a greater number of cuts and punctures compared to sprains and strains. Additionally, the construction and manufacturing industries saw more eye injuries than other industries.
What Causes Workplace Injuries?
The Injury Impact Report also determined what types of accidents caused these injuries. Some leading causes of work-related injuries include:
- Material handling at 32%
- Slips, trips, and falls at 16%
- Collisions with or being struck by objects at 10%
- Accidents involving tools at 7%
- Traumas that developed over time such as strains or overuse injuries, which accounted for 4% of accidents
The Impact of Work Injuries
Following these accidents and injuries, the report found that strains and sprains led to an average of 57 missed workdays. Meanwhile, cuts and punctures saw an average of 24 missed workdays. Fractures and inflammation caused workers to miss work the most, leading to 78 and 91 missed workdays, respectively.
Even seemingly superficial or otherwise minor injuries can lead to many missed days from work and lost wages, along with medical expenses. Missed workdays can negatively impact a business as it goes without the employee for extended periods of time following an injury.
The effects of work-related accidents and injuries make it important for employers and employees to implement sufficient safety and security measures. The reduced risk of workplace accidents can help minimize the chance of minor or serious injury. Implementing these safe work practices keeps both workers and businesses happy and healthy.
