Slips and falls can happen to anyone regardless of age or ability; they are the leading cause of home and workplace injuries in Massachusetts. Keep reading to know the common dangers of slips and falls and how to prevent them.
Dangers of workplace injuries
You are likely to experience minor injuries when you slip and fall. There is also a possibility for major injuries, such as the following:
• Fracture – A fracture is a break in the bone. This can happen when you fall and land on an outstretched arm or leg.
• Head injuries – A head injury can occur when you fall and hit your head on a hard surface. This can cause a concussion, which is a type of brain injury. Symptoms of a concussion include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, blurred vision and confusion.
• Spinal cord injuries – This occurs when you fall and land on your back or neck. Such a fall can cause the spinal cord to be compressed, leading to permanent damage. Symptoms include paralysis, insensibility and loss of bowel or bladder control.
• Soft tissue injuries – A soft tissue injury is an injury to the muscles, tendons or ligaments. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising and stiffness.
Preventing slip and fall injuries
It’s important to wear the proper footwear. Make sure your shoes have good traction and are appropriate for the weather conditions. If it is icy outside, wear boots with spikes or cleats. If it is raining, wear rubber-soled shoes and walk slowly.
In addition, be aware of your surroundings. Know where the potential hazards are and avoid them if possible. Also, if you can, clear clutter in your surroundings to remove obstacles that can topple you.
If you slip and fall at your workplace and sustain injuries, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, which are medical expenses, income replacement and disability payments. Be sure to file for these benefits immediately you are in a position to do so.
