People who have jobs in the retail industry work hard. Some might think this is a cushy job, but a lot of heavy lifting and other difficult tasks go into making stores look nice for customers. Employers should do everything possible to ensure these workers have a safe workplace.
Understanding some of the hazards in this industry might help workers to spot them so they can avoid injury. Workers who see hazards that should be addressed by their employer should speak up.
Falls
Retail workers sometimes have to climb on ladders to reach stock, decorate the store, or set displays. Falling from ladders or scaffolding can lead to significant injuries. Workers shouldn’t ever climb with their hands full since it takes three points of contact with the ladder to remain safe as they climb.
Muscle injuries
Muscle sprains and strains are common in this industry. This is actually the most common injury for retail workers. It leads to an average loss of 33 days. Preventing this type of injury can be as simple as employers providing assistive devices for heavy lifting, such as pallet jacks to move merchandise around the store.
Any retail worker who suffers an injury at work should ensure they get the medical care they need. They can obtain workers’ compensation benefits, which will pay for that medical care. Sometimes, workers have to fight for the benefits they’re due, but this can be a complex undertaking. Having someone who’s familiar with the system and how it works is beneficial. Many options for fighting an incorrect benefit award are time-sensitive, so swift action is critical.