Jobs come with an assortment of dangers, including the possibility of crush injuries. These injuries do not affect many people, but they have intense side effects nearly every time. Crush injuries can affect more people than you may expect, too.

But what are crush injuries? Who suffers from the highest rate of them, and what can you do about it?

Types of crush injuries

Medline Plus examines the side effects commonly associated with crush injuries. You can divide crush injuries into two distinct and separate categories, each with its own most common effects. First, you have extremity crush injuries. They primarily involve the hands or feet. The biggest potential risks involve blood poisoning, gangrene and amputation.

Then, you have crush injuries to the trunk or torso. These injuries occur when the main part of the body ends up crushed, often when pinned below or between a heavy object such as a tree stump or truck. Primary risks include organ failure, sepsis and internal bleeding.

Jobs with high rates of crush injuries

Those who work in construction fields or industries will have a higher risk of crush injuries than those who work outside of it, due to the frequent use of large objects, heavy equipment and machinery. Other jobs that involve similar tools or equipment – like autobody mechanic shops and factory jobs – also have a higher risk of crush injuries.

However, any job that involves heavy machinery or equipment, even if it is just a delivery truck, could potentially lead to crush injuries. This is why it is important for employees to get training on what to do in the event of a crush injury incident. Fast action can help avoid the worst outcome, after all.