#United States #retail safety #Sentry Insurance #holiday hiring #Stevens Point

Understanding Retail Workplace Injuries During the Holiday Season

The holiday shopping surge brings a high volume of employees into the retail sector, with the National Retail Federation predicting a seasonal hire range of 400,000 to 500,000. This increase in manpower, however, also highlights significant safety risks for new employees. A recent study published in the 2024 Retail & Wholesale Injury Report by Sentry Insurance revealed that approximately 38% of retail worker injuries occur within the first year of their job, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive safety training and mentorship.

Key Findings from Sentry's Report

The report presents several critical insights into workplace injuries in retail. It reveals that strains and contusions are the most common types of injuries, accounting for nearly half of all reported cases. Other notable injuries included lacerations and sprains, which further illustrate the physical demands placed on retail workers.

Injured employees often face lengthy recoveries; on average, injuries that lead to time off work result in about 70 lost workdays. Alarmingly, workers under the age of 30 exhibit the highest injury rates, comprising nearly one-third of all cases. These statistics paint a concerning picture of the potential risks faced by younger, less experienced employees.

The Importance of Training and Support

Dan Grant, Sentry's director of safety services, emphasizes the necessity of prioritizing job-specific training from day one for all new hires. The lack of training contributes to a higher incidence of injuries as holiday workers may be unfamiliar with the physical challenges and safety protocols associated with their roles. “Short-term hires often lack the job-specific training and support needed to prevent injuries,” Grant remarked.

With the holiday season being critically important for retailers, effective and proactive safety training becomes even more essential. Retail environments require employees to stock shelves, lift heavy items, and perform other physically demanding tasks that can lead to injuries if proper safety measures are not implemented.

Behavioral Health and Injury Complexity

Sentry recognizes that workplace injuries extend beyond physical ailments. The report also addresses the significant influence of behavioral health issues on recovery times and overall workplace safety. Employees facing mental health challenges, chronic pain, or substance dependencies often experience extended recovery periods and contribute to elevated workers’ compensation costs.

According to Sentry's research, around 20% of claims involving behavioral health factors came from the retail and wholesale sector. This highlights how intertwined physical and mental health aspects can complicate recovery and rehabilitation processes. Jean Feldman, Sentry's Director of Managed Care, noted that a support system for injured workers should encompass care providers, claims professionals, and employers to guide employees throughout their recovery journey.

A Call for Improved Safety Practices

The findings from the 2024 Retail & Wholesale Injury Report serve as a wake-up call for the retail industry, especially during this peak hiring period. Enhancing safety culture through improved training practices and ongoing mentorship can significantly reduce the risk of injuries.

To better safeguard the workforce, Sentry advocates for a renewed focus on employee welfare and adequate support mechanisms to foster a safer work environment. Comprehensive and continuous training efforts can lead to a reduction in injuries and a more productive workforce.

Conclusion

In summary, as retailers gear up for the holiday rush, understanding the risks associated with new hires and emphasizing safety training is crucial. With data pointing to significant injury rates among inexperienced workers, a strategic focus on proactive health and safety measures can help mitigate risks, protect employees, and maintain productivity during one of the busiest shopping seasons of the year. Retailers must invest in the safety and well-being of their employees, ensuring they can navigate their roles with knowledge, support, and security.