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The Most Common Workplace Risks

Employers and employees must recognise and address the risks that can impact safety, productivity, and well-being in any work environment. From physical hazards to psychological stressors, the modern workplace presents multiple challenges that demand attention and proactive measures.

According to data from the Health and Safety Executive, the most common non-fatal injuries to employees were caused by the following types of accidents:

- Slips, trips, or falls on the same level – 32%

- Handling, lifting, or carrying – 17%

- Struck by a moving object – 11%

- Falls from a height – 8%

- Acts of violence – 8%

Source

Physical Hazards

Physical hazards encompass a broad spectrum of risks, including slips, trips, and falls, exposure to harmful substances like asbestos, and dangerous equipment and machinery.

Due to the nature of their work, employees in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare often face heightened risks.

Employers must prioritise safety protocols, provide appropriate training and ensure equipment maintenance to minimise the likelihood of accidents and injuries. Regular inspections and risk assessments are essential for identifying potential risks and implementing corrective measures promptly.

Ergonomic Challenges

Poor ergonomics can lead to musculoskeletal disorders and chronic injuries among employees. Prolonged sitting, awkward posture and repetitive motions are common in office settings, where individuals spend significant time at their desks.

Employers can address these risks by investing in ergonomic furniture and equipment, promoting proper posture and workstation setup, and encouraging regular breaks and stretching exercises. Additionally, offering ergonomic assessments and adjustments can help employees optimise their work environment for comfort, safety, and well-being.

Workplace Stress

Workplace stress is a prevalent issue that can negatively impact employee well-being and organisational performance. Factors such as heavy workloads, tight deadlines, interpersonal conflicts, and lack of support contribute to elevated stress levels among workers.

Employers should foster a supportive and inclusive work culture, promote work-life balance, and provide resources for stress management and mental health support. Open communication channels, conflict resolution mechanisms and employee assistance programmes can help create a healthier work environment.

Personal Protective Equipment

Using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to control risks at work is critical, and employers must provide PPE free of charge if a risk assessment shows it is necessary.

PPE can include safety helmets, gloves, eye protection, hearing protection, high-visibility clothing, masks, safety footwear, and more. The required PPE will depend upon the workplace and the risks present, so a thorough risk assessment should be conducted to determine this.

The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992 states that employers must ensure PPE is adequately assessed before use to ensure it is fit for purpose, that it is maintained and appropriately stored, and that employees are provided with instructions on using it safely and correctly.

If you need to carry out risk assessments to ensure you’re mitigating against the most common workplace risks and protecting your employees, Risg Solutions is here to assist. Our team of knowledgeable consultants can carry out risk assessments and ensure you comply with legal and moral obligations to promote workplace safety. To get started, call our Swansea team at 01792 721 750, our Cardiff team at 02920 099 450, or email info@risgsolutions.co.uk, and we’ll be in touch.