Regardless of whether or not you work in the TSA, the USPS, or any other federal employer, the types of injuries of which you are at risk are the same as those who work in private industries. According to multiple sources, the top five causes of those are:
Material handling – 32 percent of workplace injuries are related to lifting, bending, crouching, etc. in order to carry large and heavy items.
Slips, trips and falls – Whether it’s a result of spills or unclear markings, falling is risk in any workplace and should be addressed whenever it’s needed.
Being struck by or colliding with an object – The pace and procedure of many work environments runs the risks of being struck by heavy objects that can inflict serious injury or even death.
Accidents involving tools – Poor training and improper use lend to work-related injuries while using tools.
Cumulative trauma (injury by overusing or straining a body part over time) – Ongoing work that forces the body to do the same movement over and over can inflict pain and cause ongoing aches and difficulties.
If you are a federal employee, you need to be aware of these risks and use both caution and common sense to prevent injury to yourself and to your coworkers. Every worker has a responsibility to work toward ensuring that the work environment is safe for themselves and everyone else they work with.
This article is general information, not legal or medical advice. Best DOL Doctors is independent and not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Labor or OWCP. See our editorial policy.