Health Care & Hospital Safety
By Darwin F. Johnson on January 17th, 2017 in Atlanta Workers Comp, Ergonomics, injury prevention, Macon Workers Comp, Savannah Worker's Comp, Workers Compensation, workplace injuries, workplace injury
It should come as no surprise that workers within the health care industry face their fair share of hazards, both physical and medical. However, if you follow the steps toward hospital safety, you’ll greatly reduce your risk for encountering a mishap.
As Atlanta’s work injury lawyer, it’s important to me that everyone in Georgia stays as safe as possible while they’re on the job, whether it’s in a hospital, at an airport or anywhere else. Here’s what you need to know about health care industry safety.
How Dangerous Are Hospitals?
Hospitals are among the most dangerous work environments, with over a quarter-million work-related injuries and illnesses occurring in their walls in the U.S. annually on average. That means, every year, nearly 7 out of every 100 hospital workers are harmed while on the job. Moreover, hospitals outrank other dangerous fields for number of days out of work faced by employees due to injury or illness. Hospital personnel miss even more days than construction workers every year.
What Can You Do to Stay Safe?
The good news is, although hospital incidents are high, they are statistically on the decline, and numbers are much lower than they were in the 80s and 90s. That means the protocols and safety precautions in place are working, but you can never be too careful. These are the most common causes of hospital workplace injuries (according to OSHA):
- Sprains and strains
- Bruises
- Soreness
- Fractures
- Cuts and punctures
Sprains and strains account for over half of all hospital worker injuries. When you’re moving around, it’s imperative to be careful and take it easy. It’s also equally important to use the proper equipment when moving patients or heavy objects.
The takeaway is, if you’re a hospital worker it’s important not to overdo things, because the repercussions could be serious. If you think you’re in harms way, get help, or use appropriate equipment. It may seem like you’re pressed for time, but taking an extra few minutes to do something correctly and safely could save you, your patients or your co-workers from becoming seriously injured. And if you do become injured, it may be in your best interest to consult a workman’s comp lawyer. Thank you for the noble work you do, and as always, stay safe!
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