Don’t Mind Me | Preventing Brain Injuries in the Workplace |
Don’t Mind Me | Preventing Brain Injuries in the Workplace |
According to the Washington State Dept. of Labor & Industries, between 4% to 7% of all traumatic brain injuries happen in the workplace. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) occur when there is an impact to the head, or a penetrating head injury, and brain function is altered. TBI’s can cause the brain tissue to bruise, tear, swell or bleed. The impact of a brain injury can be mild and heal over time or it can be life-altering. Severe brain injuries can cause life-long personality changes, memory loss, epilepsy, mental retardation, or death.
Leading causes of TBI’s in the workplace involve falls, motor vehicle accidents, and contact with objects or equipment. Workers involved in Construction, Transportation, Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing all have a higher risk of incurring a Workplace Traumatic Brain Injury.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics conducted a study and determined that most occupational brain injuries occur while workers are performing their normal job functions at their regular work site. They also found that 84% of workers who suffer brain injuries were not wearing any head protection.
Most occupational traumatic brain injuries are preventable. Below are some actions you can take to protect yourself on the job:
For more information on traumatic brain injuries in construction, please visit the CDC webpage on the topic.