Common Retail Worker Injuries
When you think of workplace accidents, you probably don’t think of them happening at your local retail store. Most people would consider these places fairly safe for customers and workers alike. However, just like anywhere, retail workers can suffer serious injuries while working at a Walmart, Target, hardware store, drug store, grocery store, or anywhere else that sells merchandise.
Retail workers have to do more than just serve customers. They must also keep the shelves stocked and well-maintained. This may include stocking shelves, climbing ladders, and moving boxes in a warehouse.
Common Hazards
A retail worker can suffer a number of hazards while at work. They include the following:
- Wet or slippery floors
- Improper lifting
- Cluttered aisles Falling merchandise from shelves
- Sharp tools such as box cutters
- Repetitive movements
- Standing in one position for a long period of time
- Use of heavy equipment like forklifts or pallet jacks
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Workplace violence
The top three hazards in terms of payout amount are:
Fall from a ladder or scaffolding: $21,000
Repetitive motion: $14,000
Motor vehicle accident: $13,900
Common Injuries
The most common retail worker injuries include:
- Muscle strains and sprains. Strains are the top reported and top paid injury group. Strains may not seem serious, but these injuries result in the most time away from work, at an average of 33 days. Retail workers can suffer these injuries from being improperly trained in lifting techniques, pushing and pulling heavy loads, or even repetitive movements.
- Cuts and punctures. Retail employees often have to use sharp tools, such as box cutters or knives, to open boxes. These tools can easily result in wounds to hands and fingers.
- Slips and falls. Slips and falls often occur due to wet floors, uneven parking lots, or cluttered high-traffic areas. They can result in a variety of injuries, such as broken bones, back and neck injuries, and head trauma.
- Motor vehicle accidents. Motor vehicle accidents are rare for retail workers, accounting for just 2% of reported claims. But when they do happen, they can be serious. In fact, motor vehicle crashes are either the first or second leading cause of death in every major industry group, including retail. These crashes may happen if drivers are not properly trained on how to drive safely.
Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Employers need to ensure safety measures are in place. Deliberately removing safety features on equipment is a serious issue that can cause employees to suffer extreme harm.
A Morristown work-related accident attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff can help you get full and fair compensation for your injuries and other damages. We understand how difficult it can be for families to undergo the stress and hardship that a serious injury can cause. Call (973) 455-1567 or fill out the online form to schedule a free consultation.
Source:
amtrustfinancial.com/blog/loss-control/common-retail-worker-injuries
