Nearly 75% of small businesses experienced workplace injuries last year, with 50% of those injuries considered preventable, according to a recent survey. These injuries not only impact employee well-being but also impose financial burdens and operational disruptions.
Pie Insurance conducted a 15-minute survey of more than 1,000 small employers, those with 2 to 500 employees, about worker injuries. Business owners and decision-makers regarding commercial insurance and workers’ compensation insurance were interviewed.
Among the most common incidents reported were mental health-related injuries (22%), slips, trips, and falls (20%), cuts, lacerations, and punctures (18%), and overexertion and repetitive strain injuries (13%). This data emphasizes the need for comprehensive safety strategies that address not only physical hazards but also mental health and overall employee wellness.
One of the most concerning findings was that many of the reported injuries were preventable. The most preventable incidents included slips, trips, and falls (59%) and cuts and lacerations (47%). This underscores the importance of implementing the right precautions and proactive measures to avoid these types of incidents. According to the survey, if small businesses could prevent just half of workplace injuries, the average annual out-of-pocket savings (covering workers’ compensation, medical expenses, and legal costs) could reach up to $10,000 or more. Additionally, preventing injuries would reduce costly operational downtime, minimizing lost business and missed workdays.
The Cost of Workplace Injuries
In addition to the mental health challenges, physical injuries continue to pose a significant financial burden on small businesses. The report found that workplace injuries cost businesses dearly:
- More than 30% of small businesses reported spending over $20,000 on injury-related costs in the past year.
- On average, each injury resulted in four lost employee workdays and three full business days of disruption annually.
These costs go beyond medical bills — they disrupt business operations and lead to lost productivity, increased workers’ compensation claims, and other hidden expenses. Addressing both mental health and physical safety is crucial for reducing these costs and improving overall workplace efficiency.
Employee Resistance to New Safety Measures
Despite the growing awareness of safety issues, employee resistance remains a significant barrier to improving safety protocols in many small businesses. According to the report, 42% of small business owners cited employee resistance as a major challenge in implementing new safety measures. The reasons for this resistance vary, with employees either feeling the measures are unnecessary (36%) or simply forgetting to follow them (32%).
This resistance underscores the importance of engaging employees in safety initiatives. Fostering a culture of safety, where employees feel empowered to follow protocols and actively participate in safety conversations, is crucial for creating a safe work environment. Employees who are involved in safety planning are more likely to adhere to safety protocols and feel responsible for the health and well-being of their colleagues.
Leveraging Technology to Improve Safety
One promising trend highlighted in the report is the growing role of AI-powered safety tools. The survey found that 81% of small businesses are open to adopting AI to improve safety, with 44% already using these technologies. Businesses that have implemented AI safety tools have reported improvements in safety outcomes, as these tools help businesses predict potential risks and prevent accidents before they occur.
By leveraging AI-powered solutions, businesses can more effectively monitor safety, assess workplace hazards, and take proactive steps to reduce risks. These tools help businesses stay ahead of potential safety issues, fostering a safer and more efficient work environment.
The report also recommends several key actions for small business employers to improve safety, alongside implementing AI safety tools:
- Enforce proper equipment use and provide adequate personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Conduct frequent and engaging safety training sessions
- Establish accountability by encouraging employees to report safety concerns
- Perform regular workplace safety audits and risk assessments
As Carla Woodard, SVP of Claims at Pie Insurance, emphasized in a press release, “Safety isn’t just a compliance checkbox—it’s a competitive advantage. Businesses that invest in proactive safety measures, from basic accident prevention protocols and mental health support to AI-driven solutions, are not only protecting their teams but can also reduce costs and strengthen operations. The right approach to safety can create stronger, more resilient businesses.”
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