How To Prevent Knee Injuries In The Workplace
The following article will provide some helpful information regarding the occurrence of knee injuries in the workplace and how employers can help prevent them.
How do knee injuries typically occur?
Though most knee injuries occur due to a slip and fall accident, knees are also vulnerable when they perform repetitive motions, make odd turns or stops, or hit a hard surface. Additionally, knee injuries can be further exacerbated when people fail to seek prompt medical attention and instead try to mitigate the injury themselves. It is important to note that ignoring a knee injury or trying to self-medicate with large amounts of over-the-counter painkillers can lead to serious joint problems. As such, it is crucial to go to the doctor or the emergency room right away if you injure your knee in the workplace. You should also inform your employer as soon as feasibly possible.
What occupations have a high risk of knee injury?
Some occupations that have a particularly high risk for knee injuries. While anyone may suffer a knee injury, these kind of injuries happen more frequently amongst occupations where workers spend much of their time on their feet, which include the following:
- Construction workers
- Restaurant workers
- Dancers
- Nurses
- Mechanics
- Delivery workers
When should an employee seek medical attention for a knee injury?
An employee who experiences a knee injury should seek medical attention immediately if he exhibits any of the following symptoms:
- Swelling and stiffness
- Redness and warmth to the touch
- Weakness or instability
- Popping or crunching noises
- Inability to fully extend your knee
Additionally, you should immediately contact a medical professional if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- You are unable to bear weight on your knee or feel as if your knee is unstable
- You experience swelling in your knee
- You are unable to fully extend or flex your knee
- You notice an obvious deformity in your leg or knee
- You experience a fever, in addition to redness, pain, and swelling in your knee
- You experience severe knee pain that is associated with a recent workplace injury
How can employers prevent knee injuries in the workplace?
There are some practical ways that employers can help prevent knee injuries in the workplace, some of which include the following:
- Raise the work level so workers are on their knees less
- Design workspaces so workers can sit rather than kneel
- Stage materials so that workers don’t have to bend or kneel to lift objects
- Use a rolling stool when floor work and movement are required
- Train workforce on appropriate knee exercises and stretches
- Provide an opportunity for employees to stretch before, during, and after work
- Provide shock absorbing knee pads for individuals who are expected to work on their knees
- Keep the work environment free of clutter and tripping hazards
Have You Suffered a Knee Injury at Work? Contact our Firm
If you have suffered a knee injury in the workplace, Connolly Injury Law can help. Our experienced Chicago personal injury attorney can help you obtain compensation for your injuries.
