Working in a retail store may not seem very dangerous. In fact, you may view it as harmless or mundane. But there are numerous hazards in retail stores that can injure you. If you suffer an injury from a workplace accident, you may need to take time off work and deal with costly medical bills. Thankfully, you can pursue a workers’ compensation claim to cover these costs.
But it is ideal to not get hurt in the first place. Unfortunately, you cannot prevent every type of accident. But you can take a few steps to make your job safer.
Watch out for slip, trip and fall hazards
Here are some common causes of slip, trip and fall accidents:
- Slippery floors from spills or mopping
- Torn carpeting
- Clutter on the sales floor
- Boxes in the inventory space
- Poor lighting
- Damaged ladders or step stools
Be vigilant about spotting anything that may cause you to fall and sustain an injury. Take action to resolve hazards when you can. This may involve putting up a “wet floor” sign after mopping, removing clutter or reporting an unsafe environment to a supervisor.
Do not overdo it
You may not think of working in retail as “hard work,” but it can take a toll on your body. Standing for a long period of time, lifting and carrying heavy boxes, scanning barcodes and operating a cash register can all cause cumulative physical trauma. These activities can result in repetitive stress injuries or overexertion. Talk to your supervisor about any ergonomic or workload concerns.
Be aware of potentially dangerous equipment, tools or supplies
Certain objects at your work may injure you if you come into contact with them. For example, box cutters, knives, cleaning chemicals and forklifts can all hurt you. Always know what is happening around you, and watch where you are going. Notify your supervisor if you notice any situation or hazard that could pose a danger.