Published by Programme B
If you work in the hospitality trade, you will know only too well how fast-paced and frenetic it can be, so it comes as no surprise that there are many workplace injuries. Staying safe in the workplace is important, but accidents do happen, so you should always know where the nearest atlanta urgent care center or hospital near you is. Here are 5 common hospitality industry injuries and the steps you can take to prevent you from becoming a victim.
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Accounting for 29% of the most common non-fatal accidents in the hospitality sector, slips, trips, and falls are hardly surprising when you take into account how fast-paced the industry is. Whether you work in a hotel, bar, or restaurant, there are various hazards to be wary of, such as spilled drinks. There are precautionary measures that can be taken, such as putting up signs for slippery areas and wearing non-slip footwear.
Lifting/Handling
The second most common type of hospitality industry injury is lifting and handling accidents, accounting for 22% of all non-fatal injuries. Many hospitality workers must lift and handle heavy items which can cause muscle strain, back pain, and neck pain. These types of injuries tend to occur over a long period where you are handling heavy goods on a frequent basis, but it is possible to hurt yourself from a one-off incident, therefore, it’s crucial that your workplace provides thorough training for handling heavy goods.
Struck by an Object
Accounting for 10% of workplace injuries is being struck by an object. This type of injury can cause a varying level of problems, such as minor cuts and bruises all the way to extreme cases such as blindness. Common causes of these accidents include items falling from a high shelf, or dropping tools. There are preventative measures that can be put in place, such as ensuring any objects that are not on ground level are stored securely.
Fall from Height
7% of all non-fatal workplace injuries occur from falling from a height, which covers falling from ladders, stairs, roofs and warehouse racking. While falling from a height comes in as the fourth most common workplace accident, they’re the third-highest contributor towards fatal injuries. There are various injuries that you can get from falling from a height, such as broken limbs, concussion, and fractures. To minimize the risk, you should take care moving up and down ladders, and ensure you’re wearing the correct equipment.
Acts of Violence
Although not as common, acts of violence can and do happen in the hospitality industry. In general, employees who must deal with face to face roles with customers are at risk of violence from employees and customers. To nip any problems in the bud, regular staff meetings should take place, and if you become a victim of violence, you should inform your employer right away, and consider contacting an Indianapolis personal injury lawyer who can fight your case and get you the compensation you deserve.
While the accommodation and food services industry statistically has a lower amount of work-related illness, work accident claims are much higher, therefore it’s crucial that you are aware of the risks involved in your field which can help you stay safe and protected in the workplace.