Common On-the-Job Injuries for Retail Employees

The retail industry is the largest private-sector employer in the United States. According to research, the retail industry supports more than one in four U.S. jobs. It is estimated that in 2022, the retail industry supported 55 million jobs, accounting for 26% of total U.S. employment. Retail employees provide essential services and support to customers. However, retail workers face a significant risk of workplace injuries. Their work environments present various hazards that can lead to different injuries. Understanding the common injuries associated with retail jobs can help prevent or mitigate injuries among retail workers. Below are some of the most common on-the-job injuries for retail employees.

Repetitive Strain Injuries

Repetitive strain injuries are among the most common injuries in the retail sector. A repetitive strain injury occurs when there is damage to your muscles, tendons, or nerves. This type of injury happens when there is constant use or repetitive motions. Retail workers often perform repetitive tasks, such as scanning items and stocking shelves. This repetitive motion can strain certain body parts, resulting in injuries. Examples of repetitive strain injuries among retail employees include carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and bursitis.

Lifting and Carrying Injuries

Retail employees often need to lift and carry merchandise. Incorrect lifting techniques or lifting items that are too heavy can result in injuries. Lifting and carrying injuries include back strain, muscle sprains, herniated discs, shoulder strain, hernia, and knee injuries.

Slip, Trip, and Fall Injuries

Slip, trip, and fall accidents are common in the retail industry. These accidents can occur due to various reasons, including cluttered areas, wet floors, uneven flooring, and poorly maintained walkways. Retail workers who slip, trip, and fall may suffer various injuries, including broken bones, head injuries, fractures, contusions and bruises, and sprains and strains.

Scrapes and Cuts 

Retail workers often handle various types of equipment that can cause scrapes and cuts, such as knives or box cutters. Also, they interact with merchandise that may have sharp edges or corners. Retail employees may suffer cuts and scrapes when opening boxes, cutting tags, or during stock management.

Machinery and Equipment-Related Injuries

Retail workers interact with various machinery and equipment daily, which present different potential hazards. Apart from cuts and bruises from handling sharp tools like box cutters, retail employees can suffer more severe injuries from operating equipment like pallet jacks or forklifts. For example, the improper use of a forklift can result in an accident. Workers may also suffer injuries if machinery or equipment malfunctions. For instance, malfunctioning pallet jacks can cause crushing injuries.

Burns

Burns are a risk to individuals who work in settings with food service departments or kitchens. Even in stores with no food service departments or kitchens, workers may suffer burns if they come into contact with chemicals.

Workers’ Compensation for Injured Retail Workers

Retail workers who suffer injuries on the job may be eligible for workers’ compensation. Workers’ compensation covers medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. It may also compensate workers for permanent disabilities. Employers are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance, which ensures injured workers receive prompt care, regardless of fault.

Legal Help Is Available

At Sluka Law PLC, our Vermont workers’ compensation attorney is committed to supporting the rights of injured workers. If you are a retail worker who has suffered a work-related injury, contact us to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.

Source:

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