Millions of workplace injuries are documented each year in United States and is estimated that millions more go unreported. The most common types of accidents leading to workplace injuries are slip-and-fall accidents, accidents involving heavy equipment, accidents involving lifting, injuries caused by falling objects, work-related motor vehicle accidents and health problems caused by prolonged exposure to hazardous substances or circumstances.

Sprains and strains are the most common sort of injury to occur at the workplace and account for almost 50% of all injuries requiring time taken off of work. Sprains or strains are usually caused by over-exertion, such as heavy lifting, or falls caused by inappropriate obstacles or slippery surfaces. Improper body mechanics can also contribute sprains and strains and lead to repetitive stress or strain injuries over time.

Slip-and-fall accidents caused by obstacles, slippery floors or poorly maintained flooring can lead to more serious injuries, such as broken bones, head injuries and spinal cord contusions. These accidents are best prevented by upholding safety standards: promptly wiping up spills and cleaning up debris before anybody is caught off-guard.

Heavy equipment accidents typically lead to serious injuries, which may include: deep cuts and contusions, accidental amputations and death. Employees must always be thoroughly trained in the use of the mechanical equipment they are expected to work with and all mechanical devices should be regularly maintained and promptly repaired to avoid unnecessary injuries.

Accidents caused by lifting heavy objects, common in construction site accidents, usually lead to muscle strains and back injuries, such as serious back sprains. Employees should not be asked to lift more than they can reasonably manage; all workers should be trained in the proper posture to use when lifting anything of significant weight.

Improperly stored merchandise or work supplies and equipment leads to many accidents in the workplace, and the injuries caused by falling objects can be quite severe. Head, back and neck injuries are not uncommon and can cause death, while injuries to the eyes can lead to partial or complete blindness. Those responsible for storing the fallen objects or for supervising their storage may be held legally responsible for any workplace injuries that ensue as a result.

Many jobs require their employees to drive cars, trucks or specialized construction equipment during the course of their workday and these types of accidents lead to some of the most severe and fatal injuries.

Finally, noise pollution, air pollution and exposure to dangerous chemicals such as asbestos on the job can lead to a host of problems, injuries and illnesses over time.

A greater awareness of the causes of workplace accidents and increased efforts made toward their prevention are the best ways to protect yourself and those who work with you from being harmed on the job. If you have already been injured in the workplace, contact a workplace injury lawyer who works with workplace accidents and injuries to help you file your claims for compensation and investigate other legal options.