A study published in a peer-reviewed occupational medicine journal has turned up some interesting, if not quite surprising, conclusions.
The study began by poring over extensive data from sources like the Centers for Disease Control in order to classify five types of exposure.
Types of exposure
- Extended weekly hours.
- Extended daily hours.
- Overtime.
- Extended commute.
- Overtime or extended hours.
Those who work under a high level of exposure in any of these categories tend to suffer workplace injury at double the rate of those who do not.
The study suggests an injury rate of one in ten for high-exposure employees, and one in twenty for low-exposure employees.
In other words, no matter how hard you work to make your workplace safe, by overworking your employees you're automatically doubling your risk.
Ways to reduce risk
- Try to avoid hiring people who will need to commute an hour or more each way. Long commutes cut into sleep and increase fatigue-related risk.
- Save overtime for Fridays. Employees are less alert after multiple long days in a row.
- Hire enough people. Making one person do the job of two increases the chance of costly injuries when that employee is staying late every day.
A well-rested employee is an alert employee, and an alert employee is less at risk for injury on the job.
Employers who want to protect staff and manage liability can review specialty coverage such as Occupational Therapists Office Insurance for clinic or therapy settings.
If your business uses contract clinicians or staffing lines, consider options like Physical/Occupational Therapists - Staffing Lines Insurance to address those specific exposures.
If you want help choosing coverage or understanding options, talk to an agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does working longer hours really increase injury risk?
Yes. The study found that high exposure to extended hours, overtime, or long commutes is associated with roughly double the workplace injury rate compared with low exposure.
How large is the increased risk?
The researchers reported an estimated injury rate around one in ten for high-exposure employees versus one in twenty for low-exposure employees.
What practical steps can employers take to lower risk?
Limit long shifts and consecutive long days, avoid hiring staff with very long daily commutes when possible, and staff adequately so no one routinely performs two people's work.
Should I consider specialized insurance for staff who provide therapy or clinical services?
Yes; businesses that employ or contract therapists or clinical staff should review insurance options designed for those professions and discuss needs with an agent.