Lifting Strains and Falling Objects Are Leading Causes of Retail Injuries

Grocery store worker in a beige apron lifting a wooden crate of lemons while stocking fresh produce on a shelf.

Working in retail can be physically demanding, and the risk of injury is part of the job for many employees. Tasks like heavy lifting, constant movement, and handling inventory can lead to serious injuries, particularly from strains and falling objects. A single accident can leave you facing pain, medical bills, time away from work, and navigating a workers' compensation claim.

If you’ve been hurt on the job in Pennsylvania, you might be unsure of your next steps or whether your work injury will be taken seriously. Retail work may not be seen as high-risk, but those in the industry know how physically demanding it can be. Understanding your rights is key to getting the medical care and financial support you need to recover.

Retail risks: Lifting and falling objects

A recent report highlights just how common workplace injuries are in the retail industry. The 2024 Retail & Wholesale Injury Report, featured in Safety+Health Magazine, reveals lifting and falling objects are the leading causes of injuries to retail workers.

Strains from lifting: Retail workers often lift heavy or awkward items, such as boxes or inventory. Improper lifting techniques or handling loads that are too heavy can cause back pain, muscle strains, and sprains. These injuries can lead to extended time off work and may require ongoing medical treatment.
Falling objects: Retail environments involve stacking products in high or unstable places, increasing the risk of falling objects. Dropped boxes, unstable shelves, or poorly stacked items can cause injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe harm to fingers, arms, or the head. These injuries can prevent workers from performing their duties for an extended period.

Working in retail comes with many hazards. To help reduce the risk of injuries, keep the following tips in mind from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH):

Prevent slips, trips, and falls: Keep walkways clear and stay in designated walking areas to avoid hazards.
Use equipment safely: Follow warning labels, use protective gear like mesh gloves, and cut away from your body when using knives or box cutters. Be aware of your surroundings, including people, boxes, and machinery.
Lift smart and avoid overworking: Lift heavy objects close to your body, keep your back straight, and use your legs. Get help or use tools for heavy lifting to prevent strain or other injury.
Stay aware of workplace hazards: Watch for falling objects, use hearing protection in noisy areas, and report unsafe conditions to a supervisor.

Helping injured retail workers in Pennsylvania get back on their feet

If you’re a retail worker injured while on the job, navigating the workers' compensation process can feel overwhelming. At Vellner Law, PC, we are committed to helping injured workers like you secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Our experienced team is here to guide you through every step of the workers' comp claim process, ensuring you get the medical care and financial support you need during your recovery.

Contact us today to learn how we can help you with your workers' compensation claim. Don’t let the process overwhelm you—let us fight for your rights. With offices in Bethlehem and Allentown, we offer legal representation to injured workers throughout the Lehigh Valley.

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