Nobody knows when an accident will strike. But, surprisingly, the workplace can be one of the most hazardous areas. In the UK, 1.7 million people reported work-related illnesses in 2023 and 2024 alone — 604,000 of which were directly related to an injury.
To minimise the risk of injury, both employers and employees should prioritise safety protocols and preventative measures. Here are the most common workplace accidents, plus how to avoid them.
1. Slips, trips, and falls
One misstep on a wet floor? Bam. You’ve landed painfully with a throbbing wrist. Slips, trips, and falls account for a significant proportion of workplace injuries. Ironically, these are also some of the easiest accidents to avoid.
Employers should enforce preventative measures, e.g. providing wet floor signs during cleaning. Employees should remain conscious of spillages and always report potential hazards (like loose mail by an entrance or bumps in uneven carpet.
2. Handling, lifting, and carrying injuries
Every employee should understand how to correctly handle heavy objects. It’s always worth conducting independent research if your role involves regularly handling and carrying goods. From a legal perspective, employers should also organise mandatory training for all employees, ensuring their workforce understands correct lifting techniques and how to utilise mechanical aids.
These are injuries worth avoiding; musculoskeletal disorders impacted 543,000 workers in 2023-2024. Sore backs and upper limbs (like shoulders) can be stubborn to rehabilitate and recover.
3. Falls from height
Working at height is niche. Yet perching on a roof or clambering up scaffolding is the norm for maintenance or construction workers. Falls from height are extremely concerning; these accidents are a leading cause of fatalities in the workplace. In fact, it’s likely a big reason why the construction industry received the highest number of fatal injuries in 2023-2024
Employers should always provide appropriate safety equipment, which employees should utilise to avoid injury. In certain scenarios, harnesses and guardrails are necessary. However, at a minimum, comprehensive, mandatory training should be given to all employees required to work at height. If you’ve experienced this type of accident, you could be entitled to a fall from height claim.
4. Being struck by moving objects
Remaining alert to your surroundings is important when avoiding moving objects. However, ultimately, you can’t have eyes in the back of your head — accidents do happen.
The best way for employers to avoid these incidents is through preventative measures, like machinery operation zones and personal protective equipment (PPE). Companies should take this seriously; if an injury occurs, they might be liable to cover an employee’s wage and medical expenses. With that said, as an employee, be proactive. Take personal responsibility in memorising and upholding safety protocols, and always keep your wits about you.
There are plenty of common accidents in the workplace, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to avoid them.
Photo credits: eOffice