Injuries

Workplace injuries are a critical aspect of Health and Safety (H&S) regulations. In the UK, the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR) outlines the types of incidents that must be reported. Here are some key points:

Types of Reportable Injuries

  • Fatalities: Any death resulting from a work-related accident must be reported, except suicides.
  • Specified Injuries: These include fractures (excluding fingers, thumbs, and toes), amputations, permanent loss of sight, crush injuries, serious burns, scalping requiring hospital treatment, loss of consciousness due to head injury or asphyxia, and injuries from working in enclosed spaces leading to hypothermia or heat-induced illness.
  • Over-7-Day Incapacitation: If an employee is unable to perform their normal work duties for more than seven consecutive days due to a work-related injury, it must be reported.
  • Over-3-Day Incapacitation: Accidents resulting in a worker being unable to perform their normal duties for more than three consecutive days must be recorded.

Common Causes of Workplace Injuries

  • Slips, Trips, and Falls: These are among the most common causes of non-fatal injuries.
  • Handling, Lifting, and Carrying: Improper techniques or overexertion can lead to significant injuries.
  • Being Struck by Moving Objects: This includes incidents involving machinery or vehicles.
  • Falls from Height: These can result in severe injuries or fatalities.

Importance of Risk Assessment

Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, employers must identify potential hazards, assess the risks, and take action to eliminate or control them. This proactive approach helps in preventing accidents and ensuring a safer work environment.

Impact of Effective H&S Practices

Since the introduction of the Health and Safety at Work Act in 1974, there has been a significant reduction in workplace injuries and fatalities. For instance, in 2020, 142 workers died due to workplace accidents, a substantial decrease from previous decades.

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