Prevention Programs Reduce Costs and Work Place Injuries

Seems like we’re all looking for innovative ways to reduce costs and do more with less. While you’re factoring different scenarios to increase the bottom line, remember that healthy, productive employees are a big part of the equation.

According to OSHA, U.S. employers pay almost $1 billion per week for workers' compensation costs. Tack on the additional expenses related to lost productivity, decreased morale, accident investigation and corrective measures, and you can see where employee safety is an investment area that cannot be ignored.

A proactive approach can significantly reduce, or eliminate, work-related injury claims. This stuff isn’t rocket science, but it needs to start at new employee orientation and become part of the office culture.

For example, provide an ergonomics evaluation of each person’s area during their first 30 days on the job. The cost of supplying a wrist-rest or lumbar support seems insignificant compared with the ongoing expense of treating carpel tunnel syndrome or other repetitive motion injuries.

It’s also important to promote activities to keep employees active. Our bodies were designed to move. When we don’t, our muscles grow weak and we’re more susceptible to injury. So offer a free weekly exercise class and provide a pleasant break room so employees will get up and move away from their desks for lunch.

Since overexertion caused by excessive lifting, pushing, pulling or carrying objects is the most common cause of injury, bring in an expert to teach proper techniques. (Remember, lift with your knees.)

And just like the analogy that “we’re only as strong as our weakest link,” prevention programs strengthen your organization by protecting employees, decreasing absenteeism, increasing customer satisfaction and reducing costs related to workplace injuries.