Preventing Workplace Manufacturing Injuries

Whether you are an employer or an employee, a workplace injury is the last thing you want to deal with. But these incidents are inevitable in almost any work setting. It is, therefore, necessary to reduce the risk that such injuries pose to everyone concerned.

Unfortunately, the labor-intensive nature of the sector makes manufacturing injuries a common occurrence. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, manufacturing is of the top three industries in which job-related injuries are likely to occur. In 2019 alone, the manufacturing sector accounted for more than 395,000 injuries.

These incidents cost hundreds of thousands of dollars every year. In New Mexico, employers are primarily responsible for paying the cost via NM Manufacturing workers comp.

Common workplace-related injuries

Frequently working with various materials, substances, and machinery increases the likelihood of having an accident. The most common injuries that occur in a manufacturing setting are:

• Contact with objects
• Overexertion
• Slips, trips, and falls
• Repetitive stress injuries
• Contact with harmful substances

It is possible to minimize the risk of these injuries by adopting proactive preventive strategies. It would also be beneficial to create a culture of safety in the workplace.

The importance of protective equipment

The leading cause of injury in the manufacturing industry is contact with dangerous objects. These incidents can be minimized with the use of safety equipment such as gloves, goggles, and protective clothing.

In addition to ensuring that employees use the appropriate equipment, employers should also address potential issues in the workplace. Barriers on the production floor could be removed to minimize the risk of trips, slips, and falls, for example. All machinery should be allotted a specific place to avoid routine disruptions that could cause accidents.

Why proper training is essential

Comprehensive safety training is essential for protecting employees from workplace injuries. The time and resources required to train employees on proper techniques are well worth the money saved from future injuries. Training employees on how to correctly handle tools and materials can prevent overexertion and related injuries. It is in the best interests of business owners to implement comprehensive safety training programs for their staff.

Minimizing exposure to harmful substances

It is equally important to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals and substances. The use of equipment, such as protective gloves and facemasks, will help prevent dangerous fumes’ inhalation.

It is also a good idea to identify potentially harmful substances and hazardous areas. Easy-to-read markings and signs will remind and encourage everyone to take the necessary precautions.

The necessity of equipment maintenance

It isn’t enough to provide workers with protective tools and equipment. It is just as essential to ensure that the equipment is well-maintained and safe to use. The equipment should be ready to go at a moment’s notice and shouldn’t require additional steps or excessive force to put on.

Avoiding stress and strain-related injuries

Repetitive movements associated with manufacturing work can be extremely strenuous. When the muscles and joints are constantly subjected to strain, the soft tissues can break down over time. This can lead to chronic pain and costly medical issues. If feasible, it might be a good idea to implement a rotation system that lets employees work on different tasks periodically.

Rest and injury prevention

Adequate rest is necessary to ensure the optimal performance of workers. Overworked employees are more likely to make mistakes or become involved in accidents. Injuries can also occur when employees are pressured to rush their work. This often forces them to skip safety precautions and disregard proper procedures.

Employers should never compromise safety for the sake of increased productivity. Creating a safe and understanding environment for your employees is critical to long-term success. Taking the extra time to do the job properly will pay off in the long run and minimize the potential cost of injuries.

Proper communication

Clear and open communication is essential for the success of any business. When employers and employees agree on work-related expectations, there are fewer misunderstandings and reduced risk of errors.

Your employees’ safety and well-being rely on clear communication of safety procedures and the implementation of a comprehensive injury care process. By creating an environment that values employee health and well-being, you will be able to maintain a more productive workforce.

About Daniels Insurance, Inc.

At Daniels Insurance, Inc., we have a unique understanding of the risks that businesses like yours face on a regular basis. With the backing of our comprehensive coverages and our dedication to customer service and quick claims resolution, your business will be fully protected. For more information, contact us today at (855) 565-7616.