Most Common Workplace Accidents Also Most Costly
When it comes to workplace injuries and claim costs, it may or may not be surprising to know that the most common workplace accidents account for the majority of claim costs. This is according to Travelers’ 2024 Injury Impact Report.
The report analyzed more than 1.2 million workers’ compensation claims that were filed between 2017 and 2021. According to the report, overexertion, slips, trips and falls, motor vehicle accidents, being struck by an object, and caught-in and caught-between hazards were the most frequent causes of injury. These incidents were also the top five drivers of claims costing $250,000 or more. Slips, trips and falls were considered to be the costliest.
These accidents were caused by factors such as inexperience, workforce shortages, and maintenance issues. While the number of overall workplace injuries has been trending downward in recent years, it’s important for businesses to be investing in workplace safety and injury prevention.
The report also revealed an increase in missed work days due to injuries. The construction industry had the highest number of lost work days per injury, with 103 work days lost on average. In second place was transportation, with an average of 83 days lost. In third place was services, with an average of 72 days lost.
The report also showed that new employees are the most vulnerable to workplace injuries. Those in their first year on the job accounted for 35% of all workers’ compensation claims. Injuries to these new employees accounted for 32% of all workers’ compensation claims costs.
Workplace accidents can lead to long-term injuries and even permanent effects such as major disabilities. Companies have a responsibility to keep workers safe. Some tips for workplace safety include:
- Create a safety plan. Develop policies and procedures to address common hazards. Ensure employees are familiar with emergency exits and procedures.
- Provide proper training. Provide job-specific safety training, such as equipment handling, fire drills, and first aid.
- Use personal protective equipment (PPE). Ensure availability and proper use of PPE, such as helmets, gloves, and goggles, as required.
- Promote stretch breaks. Encourage regular breaks to avoid repetitive strain injuries, especially for physically demanding jobs.
- Lift safely. Teach proper lifting techniques and use carts and lifts to avoid injuries.
- Conduct regular safety meetings. Conduct regular talks or safety briefings to address concerns and reinforce best practices.
- Monitor workloads. Avoid excessive overtime or high stress that can lead to fatigue-related accidents.
Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Workplace accidents cost employers and insurance companies a lot of money. Businesses can better identify what to look for and tailor their employee safety strategies accordingly to prevent injuries from happening.
After a workplace injury, what do you do? A Morristown work-related accident attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff has extensive experience helping clients injured on the job to understand their options when it comes to workers’ compensation claims and personal injury claims. Schedule a consultation by calling (973) 455-1567 or filling out the online form.
Source:
riskandinsurance.com/travelers-report-common-workplace-accidents-drive-claim-costs/
