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Writer's pictureAlisa Rodrigues

What is an industrial injury?

Is any disease or bodily damage resulting from work

Source: Mikael Blomkvist on Pexels

The biggest misconception is that industrial injuries are big wounds. What about these examples?


Obese and elderly workers could find slipping and falling as a major injury.

Workers exposed to toxic chemicals can cause diseases like 'fossy jaw.


This definition is rich but how can we understand it better?


This blog answers questions like
 

Which industries are most affected by industrial injury?

During the pandemic, health care workers contracted diseases and were exposed to other patients with the virus. Chefs, grocery store workers, electricians, trainers and shipping are also prone to workplace accidents.

Source: RDNE Stock project from Pexels

 

What are the most common types of industrial injury?


This video by TorHoerman Law gives an excellent overview about industrial injuries.

Overexertion

  • Sprain, strain or dislocations

  • Chronic joint or muscle condition

  • Stress or other mental health condition

Equipment related injuries

Transportation-related or vehicular accidents

Slips and falls

Chemical exposure


The causes of injury at work are extremely diverse - overexertion, lifting, being struck by people or objects, repetitive trauma, exposure to extreme temperatures, noises, chemical compounds, diseases, etc.

For example, a worker using their office chair, keyboard and mouse for long periods of time can cause carpal tunnel, posture issues and strain on the wrist, neck and back. In the case of a glass blower, they may have glassblower's cataracts and ballooning cheeks.



 

Download this free guide for Health & Safety while Working from Home.

 

How to avoid industrial injury?

Communication

Communicate the completion of safety checks and document procedures. Address staffing needs like shorter shifts, replacements, brighter lights and organised work spaces.

Safety policy

Discipline

Reporting system


 

What steps need to be taken after you've gone through an industrial injury?


Speed is of the highest priority. Think of it like an insurance policy.

  • Get a witness: Inform a supervisor as soon as possible.

  • Find help: Seek medical attention.

  • Gather evidence: Compile your documents and bills

  • File your claim: You miss all the shots you do not take

  • Hire a lawyer (optional): You deserve to get compensation for what you went through

Have you or someone you know go through a workplace accident?


 

Close to 500k people had a work-related injury or illness between the years 2021-2022 in Australia. Only 31% of workers got compensation from their employers. Do not let the system take advantage of you and stay safe.


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