If you work in retail, you know it can be a stressful and demanding job. However, you may not be aware that there are unique hazards in the retail industry that put you at risk of injuries. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that approximately 23,000 young retail workers miss work due to retail workplace injuries.
To avoid a retail accident, it is important to know some facts and follow safety tips. Read below to learn how you can recognize retail hazards and prevent workplace injuries.
1. Overworking
A retail occupation requires a lot of lifting, repetitive motions and working long hours. These things can result in overexertion. Overworking can result in sprains, strains, tears, carpal tunnel syndrome or back pain. Using good posture and asking for help when lifting heavy objects can help you avoid overworking. Your employer should give you rest breaks after you conduct hard work.
2. Equipment, tools or supplies
Retail workplaces are full of various objects that can cause injuries with improper contact or use. These include:
- Ladders
- Forklifts
- Boxes
- Cleaning chemicals
- Box cutters
Contact with these items at the workplace is the leading cause of injuries for young workers. Make sure you are always careful and inform your supervisor about any possible hazards.
3. Slips, trips and falls
There are various hazards that can result in you slipping, tripping or falling on the job. For example, you may encounter loose mats, step ladders, spills, rain, cluttered walkways or poor lighting. All of these things can cause sprains, strains, bruises, scratches, cuts and fractures. If you notice anything you may slip or trip on, you should inform your employer immediately.
Injuries can happen in retail environments for a variety of reasons, but these are some of the most common causes. Your employer has the responsibility to properly train you and inform you of workplace hazards. If you get an injury on the job, you may be able to pursue a workers’ compensation claim.