Wharton Insurance Briefs

by Mario DeFilippis

I recently read an article regarding on-the-job risks and preventative tools that you can consider.

With workers continuing to return to work sites and many businesses hiring new employees, proper training and guidance to control everyday hazards is more important than ever. Here are some areas of risk that should be monitored closely:

Struck By or Against – This was one of the top risk exposures back in 2021 (31 percent) and is typically a leading cause of injury year over year. According to OSHA, “struck by” is defined as injuries produced by forcible contact or impact between the injured person and an object or piece of equipment. These types of injuries are prevalent in the scrap industry. A worker can be struck by a flying, falling, swinging or rolling object. 

Material Handling – This workplace risk exposure results from improper moving, handling or storage of materials, which can result in damage to the musculoskeletal system causing ergonomic-type injuries, such as strains and sprains, fractures or cuts and bruises. Material handling injuries occur from lifting, stooping, twisting, reaching and bending.

Falls (Same Level and from Elevation) – Same-level falls typically involve slips and trips, while falls from elevation can occur from a ladder, scaffolding or another surface.

Cumulative Trauma – This is the excessive wear and tear on tendons, muscles and sensitive nerve tissue caused by continuous use over an extended period. Cumulative trauma can develop from improper work positioning, repetition or force. 

As always, please contact me if you have any questions.

Mario DeFilippis 

AAI Vice President

Wharton Insurance Group 

800-221-0003 (ext. 1320) 

(908) 513-8588 (cell) 

mdefilippis@whartoninsurance.com

Want more? Check out the April 2025 issue of New Jersey Automotive!