Workplace safety extends to the office

If you’re like most people, you think of high-risk occupations when you think about workplace accidents. You imagine a construction worker on a high-rise or a firefighter running into a burning building.

However, the reality is that people are hurt every year simply working in the office. Some of these injuries even leave them with permanent disabilities. Don’t assume there is no risk just because you’re in a “safe” setting.

When looking at disabling injuries, the most common reason for them is falls. This is consistent with other industries and settings. Even so, some stats indicate that the disabling injury rate when looking at on-the-job falls is 2 to 2.5 times more for officer workers than those who don’t work in the office.

Tripping hazards are a big issue. A low desk drawer may get left open. Electric cords may not be properly cleaned up. Chairs may be moved out of place. Boxes could be left in a walkway. All of these things and many more can cause an office worker to trip and fall.

Other common injury causes include lifting items that are too heavy, lifting those items improperly, being struck by objects, or suffering injuries due to an uncomfortable sitting position. Some officer workers also have issues if they do the same motions over and over again.

Have you been hurt working in the office? If so, you may have a right to compensation in New York. You can use this compensation to pay the bills while you’re unable to work, to cover your medical costs, and for other things of this nature. Be sure you know what rights you have, even in a job that’s not traditionally thought of as dangerous.

Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, “Workplace Safety: Office Safety,” accessed Oct. 05, 2016