Working in the retail industry is often how people start or end their careers. Young adults looking for hands-on work experience might take jobs at big box stores or local grocery stores. Older adults looking for part-time employment during their retirement years might seek out part-time retail employment.
Retail work can be very demanding, contrary to what people might assume. Professionals staffing shops are on their feet for hours and sometimes end up hurt because of their job responsibilities. Retail professionals may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits if they get hurt on the job or develop a job-acquired medical condition.
Of course, avoiding injury and illness is always preferable to treating conditions after they develop. What hazards are among the top safety issues for those working in the retail sector?
1. Falls, including same-level falls
Some retail workers have to get up on ladders or stools for stocking or order fulfillment purposes. They might fall and end up hurt. Others could be at risk of a same-level fall even if they never get up on a ladder.
Workers could slip in a spill caused by a customer. They could trip over their own shoelaces. Falls can lead to broken bones and soft tissue injuries or even brain injuries. Retail workers may require time away from their jobs and medical care because they fall while working.
2. Interpersonal violence
Working with the public is a hazard in its own right. Retail employees can get hurt during a shoplifting or robbery attempt. They could also end up injured by a customer who becomes angry over their experience at the store. Interpersonal violence can cause a wide array of different injuries that may lead to both medical expenses and lost wages.
3. Repetitive strain injuries
Many retail employees perform the same job functions for hours per shift. They might have to crouch down repeatedly to stock the lowest shelf or scan items, which involves gripping and twisting.
The longer workers perform the same functions, the more likely they are to develop repetitive strain injuries that may diminish their functional capabilities. Repetitive strain injuries can be difficult to treat and can impact a worker’s job performance. They may experience decreased strength and regular pain symptoms.
Developing an awareness of common job hazards can help retail workers prioritize their safety. They may require support if they intend to file workers’ compensation claims. Learning about the benefits available and the processes needed to obtain coverage can help people secure workers’ compensation benefits for employment-related medical issues.