Injury Prevention Strategies for American Employers

The Most Common Workplace Injuries - Acute Vs Repetitive Stress

The warehousing and distribution industry places high physical demands on the employees that keep it running. Musculoskeletal (MSK) injuries are the leading cause of missed workdays, and workers are at risk of experiencing a wide variety of injuries as a result of job demands. Common injuries can be split into two basic categories: acute and repetitive stress. 

Acute injuries occur suddenly and unexpectedly as a result of a specific event. These injuries are easier to identify, as they typically are accompanied by sudden onset of pain and movement dysfunction. In high-risk industries, these types of injuries often occur when either the load is too high or the body mechanics are faulty during the performance of a specific task, such as a ground lift of an object. Accidents such as slips, trips, and falls can lead to acute injuries as well. 

Repetitive stress, also known as overuse injuries, are harder to identify as they occur gradually over time. Repetitive movements such as bending, lifting, twisting, and prolonged postures can lead to pain, soreness, and musculoskeletal dysfunction. Overuse injuries can gradually limit an employee's performance & productivity and can progress to the point of missed work time.

WORKFORM Solutions 

WORKFORM offers comprehensive and unique solutions in order to help reduce the impact of injury on employers and their hard working employees. These solutions are tailored to be industry-specific while accounting for each individual and their job demands. 

Injury Prevention: Educate employees on biomechanics to enhance injury resilience during work tasks and daily life. Prevention workshop/seminars include the following topics:

• Core Bracing 

• Posture

• Gait / Carrying 

• Ground Lifts

• Overhead Lifts

• Advanced Movements 

Work Performance: Introducing programs and solutions categorized as pre-work, during work, and post-work, designed to enhance efficiency and productivity.

New Hire and Return to Work Coaching: Attacking the high-risk scenarios on an individual basis 

Early Intervention: Education and guidance regarding pain, health, and wellness

Ergonomics: ergonomic assessments, modifications, and employee implementation 

Free Workplace Evaluation

WORKFORM is now offering a free workplace evaluation used to assess a company's current work environment, employee job demands, and company specific risk factors. This evaluation is used to provide feedback to the employer and is followed by a detailed proposal of solutions designed to reduce the impact of injury and improve employee performance & productivity.