Injuries in the workplace happen and when they do they cost money and cause pain and suffering to both the individual and the business. A large number of them can be prevented with the right workplace injury management program. Are you prepared for injury prevention?
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Staff are the backbone to any organization, and like the backbone they need to be cared for properly to work at their most efficient level. Injuries stop this from happening and can cause major disruption throughout your business. Corporate wellness starts with being able to identify the potential causes of injuries within the work environment. This could be anything from trailing cables to unsupportive chairs and ill placed screens and monitors.
Once the risks are identified the next stage is to work out how to minimize or remove each of the risks. However, to do this effectively you also need to know more about your staff. No two members of staff will have the exact same physical or medical needs, and much will depend on existing conditions and medical history. A person will an existing lower back problem may need different support to an individual with sight problems. By combining both sets of information you can develop an injury prevention and management plan that works for everyone, including you as the business owner or manager. Plus, don’t ignore that a worker’s compensation clinic may be needed if he person needs support because heir injury is going to mean they will be off work.
The Role Of The Physiotherapist
Most people only experience the work of a physiotherapist once they have had a serious musculoskeletal injury. However, early intervention by such a professional can reduce the risk of injury and illness, particularly in the workplace as part of an illness and injury prevention program.
Physiotherapists are not just about putting people back together after an accident or injury involving the musculoskeletal system. Their expertise is also great in preventing injuries and minimising the effects of pre-existing injuries and conditions. When working in tandem with employers as part of a corporate wellness program, they are able to assess and respond to concerns quickly and liaise with employers to ensure that staff are getting the provisions they require. This could involve anything from on-site physio appointments to a change in the way their work space, or work time is organized.
The physio’s involvement in an injury prevention and management initiative also cuts down the time employees have to wait to be seen for assessment and treatment. This, in turn, cuts down on the pain and discomfort felt by the staff member and means that they are able to return to full productivity sooner. Where time off work is required the time can be shortened by quicker, more effective treatment and clear communication regarding the individual’s needs. In all, the physio plays an important role in reducing stress and anxiety for the staff member and cutting costs in the long term for the company.
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This post was a collaboration.
