Warehouses are vital cogs in the machinery of the economy, but they can also be dangerous places. Workers constantly navigate a landscape of heavy machinery, uneven surfaces and towering stacks of goods.
While there are many potential injuries that can develop in these environments, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a particular concern. A TBI can be caused by a forceful bump, blow or jolt to the head. Even seemingly minor incidents can result in life-altering consequences.
Slips, trips and falls
Warehouses are full of slip and trip hazards. Uneven floors, spilled liquids, poorly placed boxes and inadequate lighting can all turn a walk into a tumble. A fall from even a low height can cause a head injury. Warehouse workers should wear slip-resistant footwear and be aware of their surroundings.
Falling objects
Warehouse shelves are often packed high, and improperly secured boxes, loose tools or malfunctioning equipment can all become dangerous projectiles. A falling object striking the head can cause serious or even fatal injuries.
Forklift accidents
Forklifts are essential warehouse tools, but they pose a significant risk of injury if operated improperly. Collisions with pedestrians, tip-overs and falling objects from forks can all lead to head trauma for workers or bystanders.
Being struck by moving machinery
Warehouses are full of moving machinery, from conveyor belts to pallet jacks. Getting caught in machinery or being struck by a moving object can easily cause a head injury. Proper training on machinery operation and wearing appropriate clothing that won’t get caught in machinery can help minimize the risk of this workplace accident.
An ideal shift is one that is productive, and everyone goes home healthy at the end of their shift. Unfortunately, for some workers, a shift can end with a traumatic brain injury from a workplace accident. Thankfully, through workers’ compensation, they can receive compensation for their injuries.