What are the Most Common Workplace Accidents? How to Prevent Them?

Workplace accidents are unfortunately common across many industries and can have serious consequences for employees and organisations alike. Identifying the most common kinds of incidents and the means of avoiding them is paramount to promoting a safer working environment.

Let’s take a closer look at the most common workplace accidents and, more importantly, how we can prevent them.

Most Common Workplace Accidents

Slips, Trips, and Falls

One of the most common workplace injuries is slipping, tripping, or falling. A wet floor, uneven ground, or dark staircase is usually an easy but expensive accident to have.

How to prevent it:

• Ensure all spills are cleaned up immediately.
• Place clear warning signs when floors are wet.
• Remove clutter and cables from walkways.
• Fit suitable, proper lighting, particularly around stairways and corridors.
• Get employees to wear appropriate, non-slip footwear.

Small habits, like taking a moment to pick up a loose cable or wipe up a spill, can make a huge difference in preventing these accidents.

Manual Handling Injuries

Incorrect lifting, carrying, or handling heavy loads may result in severe injury, especially to the back, shoulder, and arms. Manual handling is an everyday activity in the workplace, but improperly executed, it may have long-term health effects.

How to prevent it:

• Provide manual handling training for all staff.
• Use trolleys, lifting aids, or team lifts for heavy loads.
• Encourage employees to follow proper lifting techniques: bend the knees, not the back.
• Redesign tasks to minimise heavy lifting wherever possible.

Prioritising work safety tips like these can help ensure that employees remain fit and injury-free.

Suggested read: How to Become a Safety Officer – A Guide for Beginners

Falls from Height

Working at height, even just a few feet off the ground, carries obvious risks. Falls from ladders, scaffolding, or elevated work areas are often severe.

How to prevent it:

• Provide fall protection equipment such as harnesses and guardrails.
• Train staff on the safe use of ladders and scaffolding.
• Carry out regular equipment inspections.

Avoid working at height wherever possible. If a job can be safely accomplished from the ground, use that method.

Being Struck by Moving Objects

In busy workplaces like warehouses or construction sites, moving equipment and materials can pose a danger. Even in an office, unsecured shelves or heavy items can cause injuries if they fall.

How to prevent it:

• Make sure all equipment and materials are kept securely stored.
• Clearly mark vehicle routes and keep them distinct from pedestrian paths.
• Make the use of personal protective gear such as helmets mandatory where required.
• Train employees to remain constantly aware of their environment.

Exposure to Harmful Substances

Chemical burns, inhalation of dangerous fumes, and skin conditions from contact with hazardous substances are more common than we might think, especially in industries like manufacturing, cleaning, or healthcare.

How to prevent it:

• Provide proper ventilation in workspaces.
• Offer suitable protective clothing, gloves, and eye protection.
• Train staff to handle substances safely and know what to do in an emergency.
• Always label hazardous materials clearly.

Good management of chemical risks protects not just the employees but also the wider environment.

Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI)

These injuries don’t result from a one-time incident but develop over time through repeated motions such as typing, using a mouse, or operating machinery. Sometimes, simply adjusting a chair or taking a short break can prevent these types of injuries.

How to prevent it:

• Encourage regular breaks during repetitive tasks.
• Invest in ergonomic furniture and equipment.
• Train employees in good work habits and posture.
• Rotate tasks to reduce repetition.

Enhance Your Expertise in Workplace Safety

For those interested in deepening their knowledge and leadership skills in occupational health and safety, pursuing an Online MBA in Occupational Health and Safety is a valuable step.

The Master of Business Administration in Occupational Health and Safety offered by Exeed College provides a comprehensive curriculum covering risk management, safety leadership, and organisational theory.

This programme equips professionals to effectively manage workplace risk factors and promote safer work environments. It is designed for busy professionals who want to upskill without putting their careers on hold. With expert-led courses, real-world case studies, and a focus on practical solutions, you’ll be ready to tackle workplace risk factors head-on. Read more: Roles and Responsibilities of Safety Manager