The Medical Minute

Despite workplace injuries having declined by 75% since 1972, about 2.3 million people worldwide have work-related accidents every year. In 2020–21 there were more than 470,000 workers in the U.S. who suffered from a work-related musculoskeletal disorder.This type of injury accounts for over 28% of all work-related ill health. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many of the musculoskeletal disorder cases in the 2018 private sector occurred in healthcare and social assistance. And, a lot of these injuries were related to slips, trips, and falls.

Here are the 10 most common injuries sustained from slips, trips, and falls:

• Broken bones
• Neck injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Concussions
• Other forms of traumatic brain injury
• Severe cuts and lacerations
• Knee and ankle injuries
• Shoulder, elbow, and wrist injuries
• Facial injuries
• Chronic pain

So, let’s make workplace and home safety a top priority because falls are preventable. How do we do this?

• Determine what safety equipment is needed and be properly trained on how to use it.
• Look for potential hazards before starting any job.
• Keep the work area clear of hazards, and immediately clean up any spills.
• Don’t wear loose clothing that can get caught in equipment.
• Fall-proof your home:
  • Keep floors and surfaces clear of clutter
  • Keep electrical and phone cords out of traffic areas
  • Use handrails on stairways
  • Wear sensible footwear
  • Maintain good lighting indoors and out 

Take a look at these resources for more information:  

• OSHA   
• CDC    
• Firstonsite.com

To read previous editions of the Medical Minute, please visit the MBU Wellness site.