Compared to work environments like factories and construction sites, offices seem like very safe to work. However, as a NY workers compensation lawyer can confirm, workers can also face risks in office environments. If you work in an office, it is important to know the risks so that you can protect yourself from future injuries.
Here are common injuries sustained in an office.
Repetitive Strain Injuries
Office workers often have to perform the same tasks over and over, such as typing on a computer. While these tasks may seem harmless at first, they can do damage over time. When you perform the same tasks, you may develop repetitive strain injuries. These injuries can affect the muscles, ligaments, tendons and nerves and are caused by several activities, like typing, grasping tools and using a computer mouse. Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, weakness and numbness.
There are several steps you can take to avoid repetitive strain injuries. For example, you should make sure that your equipment fits your body and is comfortable to use. If you have to use a phone frequently, use a headset to prevent straining your shoulders and neck. It is also a good idea to take a break every hour or so to walk around.
Slip and Fall Accidents
As the legal professionals at Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen, P.C. can attest, slip and fall accidents can occur in just about any work environment, including offices. For instance, if someone spills soda in the employee break room and does not clean it up, another worker can slip and fall. That is why spills should be cleaned up as soon as possible. If the spill can’t be cleaned up right away, a sign should be put off.
Slip and fall accidents can result in many injuries, including head injuries, broken bones, lacerations and spinal cord injuries.
Back Pain
Your job does not have to be physical for you to endure back pain. In fact, back pain is quite common among office workers. When you sit all day in a chair, it can be difficult to maintain proper posture. If you sit slouched in your chair, it can put a lot of pressure on your spine, which can cause back pain. Making sudden movements and lifting things incorrectly can also contribute to back pain. If you develop back pain, it can negatively affect your quality of life and make it more difficult to do your daily tasks.
One of the best ways to prevent back pain is to improve your posture. Always sit up straight with your shoulders pulled back. If you need additional support, consider placing a small pillow behind your back. You may also want to get a standing desk so that you don’t spend too much time sitting. Try to stay active throughout the day to reduce the risk of back pain.
If you have suffered an injury while working in an office, you may want to get in touch with a workers compensation lawyer soon.
