Office injuries are more common than you think, but they’re often overlooked due to their subtle nature. Many people assume that office injuries are minor and won’t result in long-term consequences, but the reality is that they can have serious financial, physical, and emotional repercussions. Here are some of the hidden costs of office injuries that you should be aware of:
- Lost Wages
If you’re injured at work, you may need to take time off to recover. Depending on the severity of your injury, you could be out of work for days, weeks, or even months. This not only affects your income but can also reduce your earning potential and affect your ability to save for the future. Sure, you might be able to put in a Workers Compensation claim but that does not always cover your full wage, and can “run out” after a certain time.
- Medical Expenses
Office injuries often require medical attention, which can be expensive. Depending on the type of injury, you may need to pay for doctor visits, x-rays, physical therapy, or even surgery. Some of these costs may be covered by your employer’s insurance, but depending on the state you live in you may still have to pay a portion out of pocket. If you work for yourself then you may have to cover the full cost.
- Reduced Productivity
Even if you’re able to return to work after an office injury, you may not be able to perform at the same level as before. This could result in reduced productivity and decreased job performance, which could negatively impact your career and earning potential.
- Emotional Trauma
Office injuries can also have emotional consequences. You may experience anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues as a result of your injury, which can affect your quality of life outside of the workplace and add to the overall costs of your injury.
- Reduced Quality of Life
Depending on the type of injury, you may experience long-term consequences such as chronic pain or reduced mobility. This can affect your quality of life and limit your ability to participate in activities you once enjoyed.
Office injuries are not to be taken lightly. While they may seem minor at first, they can have significant financial, physical, and emotional consequences that can last for years to come. The best way to avoid office injuries is to take a proactive approach to workplace safety and implement a preventative strategy such as a formal Workplace Ergonomic Assessment program. This service is something that Ergo Experts can assist with.
It is also important to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of an injury – acting early can limit the severity of the condition and help have you back on track to normal health sooner.
