Blog – North Risk Partners

Construction Industry Fatalities Decline in 2024

Jarrica Walston — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:13:02 +0000

In 2024, total workplace fatalities in the United States fell to 5,070, the lowest number since 2020. While this data is being discussed in 2026, it reflects the most recent of fully verified national fatality data, as each incident takes significant time to investigate and finalize. The construction industry, in particular, saw improved worker safety, with fewer total deaths. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported 41 fewer worker deaths in 2024 than in 2023, down to 1,034 from 1,075, representing a 4% decrease year over year.

On an occupational level, 1,032 deaths occurred among construction and extraction workers, while there were 788 fatalities among construction trades workers, a decline from 809 in 2023. Moreover, 2024 saw a slight decrease in the construction fatality rate, with a recorded 9.2 deaths per 100,000 full-time equivalent workers (down from 9.6 in the previous year). This is the lowest fatality rate in the industry since 2011.

Despite these improvements, construction still accounts for 20% of all occupational fatalities, making it one of the most hazardous industries. The fatality rate, which has hovered between nine and 10 deaths per 100,000 workers for more than a decade, indicates long-term stagnation in safety improvement.

Leading Causes of Fatalities

The BLS cited the following as the top causes of construction worker fatalities in 2024:

Slips, trips, and falls: 389 deaths

Transportation incidents, including collisions and vehicle-struck-by incidents: 244 deaths

Exposure to harmful substances or environments: 187 deaths

Contact incidents, including struck-by incidents: 161 deaths

Workplace violence: 46 deaths

Fires and explosions: 5 deaths

Falls remain the leading safety concern on construction sites. Although fall-related deaths decreased from 421 in 2023 to 389 in 2024, they still accounted for over a third of deaths. In 2024, 10.8% of fatal falls, slips, and trips involved a worker falling from a height of more than 30 feet.

Overall, the BLS data highlights that even with notable progress, construction operations still face significant hazards that pose critical risks to employee safety.

Risk Mitigation Strategies

Economic and demographic shifts contribute to employee safety across the construction industry. With increased demand for infrastructure, domestic manufacturing, data centers, housing, and commercial development, construction operations are growing nationwide, creating more opportunities for job-site injuries and deaths. In addition, the retirement of older employees and the entry of new workers can increase safety risks, as less-experienced workers may be more vulnerable, and safety training and supervision may be insufficient.

Considering these trends, safety experts stress the importance of the following proactive strategies to improve safety among the construction workforce:

Strengthen fall protection systems and real-time compliance monitoring.

Enhance onboarding and skills training for new or inexperienced workers.

Implement clear stop-work authority policies that empower employees to stop unsafe tasks.

Foster a strong safety culture and leadership accountability at all levels.

Introduce programs that address common contributors to injuries and fatalities, including mental health, substance misuse, and heat stress.

Continue to focus on mitigating vehicle and struck-by hazards as well as fall risks, the top causes of death among construction workers.

Construction-related fatalities decreased in 2024, but the industry continues to face elevated safety risks. Progress in safety outcomes will require continuous investment in training, enforcement, and proactive jobsite hazard management.

If you have questions, please contact a North Risk Partners Advisor.

This blog is not intended to be an exhaustive source of information nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should consult legal counsel or a licensed insurance professional for appropriate advice. © 2026 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.

Cumulative Trauma Injuries and Workers’ Compensation

Jarrica Walston — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:00:29 +0000

Although common in the construction industry, cumulative trauma injuries (CTIs) are some of the most complex workers' compensation claims. They often result in long, painful experiences for employees. Therefore, it's crucial that construction employers reduce the risk of CTIs and associated workers' compensation claims.

Common CTIs in Construction

CTIs, also known as repetitive movement or overuse injuries, result from repeated movements, improper or awkward positioning, vibration, or forceful exertion over an extended period. Construction workers face elevated exposure to these conditions, leading to the degeneration of their impacted body parts and necessitating medical treatment. The following are common types of CTIs in construction:

Low back injuries are caused by repetitive lifting, bending, and twisting. These types of injuries include strain, disc degeneration, and chronic pain.

Shoulder injuries, such as rotator cuff irritation and tendonitis, can result from repetitive overhead work, lifting, and holding materials away from the body.

Knee injuries can be caused by frequent kneeling, squatting, climbing, and load-bearing tasks.

Wrist, hand, and finger injuries can occur due to repetitive gripping, vibration from tools, and forceful use. These types of injuries include tendonitis, trigger finger, and carpal tunnel.

CTIs can present with a variety of symptoms, including pain, inflammation, numbness or tingling, swelling, and reduced range of motion.

Workers' Compensation Claims From CTIs

CTI claims can be complicated and costly. Since such injuries occur over an extended length of time, it's often challenging to determine the root cause of the injury. Many workers also delay reporting their injuries; they may assume their injuries are temporary, avoid medical care, and end up with more severe injuries and higher claim costs over time.

Since CTIs can affect multiple body parts and result in long-term damage, they often require extended treatment, such as physical therapy. Employers may have to modify the injured employee's duties, or the worker may even require vocational retraining if the injury prevents them from returning to their usual work tasks. In general, CTIs impact employers by increasing employees' time away from work, raising medical and indemnity costs, and complicating claims investigations. Preventing these injuries is more cost-effective for employers than managing their subsequent claims.

How to Mitigate CTI Claims

Construction employers can help prevent CTI injuries among workers with the following strategies:

Conduct ergonomic risk assessments to identify tasks with repetitive motion hazards.

Provide proper tools and equipment and redesign work tasks in ways that reduce strain and physical exertion. Where possible, incorporate mechanical lifts; ergonomic or anti-vibration tools and tools that require less grip force; and adjustable platforms that reduce bending and overhead reach.

Provide employee training on ergonomics and CTI prevention. Workers should be instructed on proper lifting techniques, posture, tool handling, and early symptom recognition.

Encourage early injury reporting to reduce medical severity and claim costs.

Create wellness programs that teach employees how to care for their bodies, reduce injury risk, and promote overall well-being.

CTIs are significant challenges in the construction industry, but they are also preventable. Implementing preventive measures can help employers protect their employees and minimize workers' compensation costs.

If you have questions, please contact a North Risk Partners Advisor.

Attractive Nuisances on Construction Sites

Jarrica Walston — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 19:14:39 +0000

Attractive nuisances are hazardous conditions created on your property—whether it's a vacant lot or an active construction site after hours—that can draw in trespassers, especially children and minors. The general contractor on the site can be held liable for any injuries trespassers sustain due to these conditions.

Construction employers can prevent entrance onto worksites and discourage trespassers from getting hurt. Failing to take measures to prevent the entry or injury of trespassers creates a serious risk for anyone who may enter and exposes the construction company to liability.

Risks of Attractive Nuisances

Attractive nuisances pose physical safety risks to trespassers. Examples of attractive nuisances on construction sites include:

Unstable walls or scaffolding that invite climbing
Heavy machinery that is accessible
Trenches, pits, or ditches that pose fall and cave-in hazards
Chemicals, equipment, and tools that are left unsecured

Failing to prevent injury to those on the site, including trespassers, may result in several exposures for construction companies. Employers can face lawsuits if trespassers are injured, potentially leading to financial losses, such as insurance claims and regulatory fines, as well as costly project delays. Unsafe conditions and a lack of risk prevention practices can also damage a construction company’s reputation and erode the public’s trust.

Risk Prevention Strategies

Even if they do not own the property, construction employers are responsible for maintaining safe premises for everyone who enters the worksite—whether authorized or not. Employers should have the following safety measures in place to prevent injuries due to attractive nuisances:

Secure the site. Install gates and fencing that cannot be easily climbed, and place visible “No Trespassing” signage. Surveillance systems and flood lighting in poorly lit areas further deter unauthorized entry.
Control hazards. Cover or barricade trenches, walls, and other unstable features. Lock away tools, equipment, chemicals, and safety gear at the end of each shift to prevent tampering. Ensure ladders and machinery are properly secured.
Maintain the premises. Regularly fix cracks or gaps in walkways, maintain safe working conditions for employees, and install alarms or security doors to strengthen site protection. Rescue equipment should also be available in case of emergencies.
Train employees. Educate workers on the risks of attractive nuisances, reporting protocols, and the importance of vigilance in maintaining site safety.
Engage with the community. Notify nearby residents, schools, and municipalities about potential hazards to raise awareness and reduce risks.

Despite strategies to reduce risks of attractive nuisances, accidents can still happen on the worksite. Construction employers should ensure they secure adequate commercial general liability coverage to provide financial protection against attractive nuisance claims.

If you have questions, please contact a North Risk Partners Advisor.

OSHA Announces Top 10 Violations for 2025

Jarrica Walston — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 19:07:54 +0000

OSHA recently revealed its top 10 most frequently cited standards in the 2025 fiscal year using preliminary data. This information is valuable for construction employers, as it helps them identify common exposures that affect their workforce and gives them insight to plan their compliance programs.

For 2025, the top 10 most cited standards were as follows:

Fall protection—General requirements (1926.501): 5,914 total violations
Hazard communication (1910.1200): 2,546 total violations
Ladders (1926.1053): 2,405 total violations
Control of hazardous energy—Lockout/tagout (1910.147): 2,177 total violations
Respiratory protection (1910.134): 1,953 total violations
Fall protection—Training requirements (1926.503): 1,907 violations
Scaffolding (1926.451): 1,905 total violations
Powered industrial trucks (1910.178): 1,826 total violations
Personal protective and lifesaving equipment— Eye and face protection (1926.102): 1,665 total violations
Machine guarding (1910.212): 1,239 total violations

Several standards changed positions from fiscal year 2024. For instance, “respiratory protection” moved down from number four to number five, and “scaffolding” violations moved up from number eight to number seven. “Fall protection—general requirements” remained OSHA’s most frequently cited standard for the 15th consecutive fiscal year. Keep in mind that this data is preliminary and may be subject to change.

The construction industry continues to face elevated risks due to the nature of its work environment—often involving heights, heavy equipment and rapidly changing jobsites. Violations related to fall protection, scaffolding and ladder safety consistently rank among the most cited, underscoring the need for rigorous training, hazard assessments and enforcement of safety protocols. Employers must ensure that workers are equipped with proper personal protective equipment (or PPE) and that all equipment is inspected and maintained regularly.

To strengthen compliance and reduce incidents, construction employers should prioritize site-specific safety planning, conduct regular inspections and ensure that supervisors are trained to identify and correct hazards in real time. Emphasizing a culture of safety where workers are encouraged to report unsafe conditions and participate in ongoing training can significantly reduce the risk of injury and improve overall job site performance.

By being informed about OSHA’s most frequently cited standards and implementing proactive safety measures, construction employers can foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

If you have questions, please contact a North Risk Partners Advisor.

Understanding Contractual Risk Transfer

Jarrica Walston — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 14:16:52 +0000

Contractual risk transfer (CRT) involves shifting financial responsibility for specific risks from one party to another within a contract. This risk management strategy is crucial for construction employers, as it places liability on subcontractors, vendors or service providers. In this way, CRT protects employers’ margins, reduces uninsured losses and helps ensure insurance coverage for losses.

This article outlines key components of CRT, discusses common weaknesses in construction contracts and provides best practices for CRT.

Components of CRT

The following are critical elements of effective CRT:

Indemnification clauses within contracts require one party, usually the subcontractor, to defend and indemnify the employer for specific claims, such as third-party bodily injury, property damage and defense costs. However, many states have anti-indemnity statutes, so employers must ensure their contracts comply with local regulations.
Additional insured (AI) requirements stipulate that upstream parties, such as owners, general contractors or construction managers, are named as AIs. Construction employers usually require AIs on commercial general liability (CGL), auto and umbrella policies. Contracts should specify primary and noncontributory wording and require AI coverage for ongoing and completed operations.
Insurance requirements ensure subcontractors have adequate coverage. Within contracts, employers should mandate minimum limits, designate a preference for occurrence or claims-made policies, and detail required endorsements, such as CG 20 10 for ongoing operations and CG 20 37 for completed operations.
Waivers of subrogation prevent an insurer from seeking reimbursement from the employer after paying a claim, thereby preserving the intended risk allocation. These waivers are commonly found in conjunction with CGL, workers’ compensation and builders risk policies.

Common Weaknesses in Contracts

Construction contracts may omit critical provisions or language, thereby undermining CRT and exposing the employer to potential risks. Common issues include:

Lacking indemnification language or using vague language
Listing AI endorsements that do not match the contract
Not obtaining or reviewing certificates of insurance (COIs)
Relying on outdated or expired endorsements
Not flowing down requirements to subcontractors

CRT Best Practices

Construction employers should implement the following strategies to ensure effective CRT and reduce exposures:

Conduct a pre-contract review. This ensures all risk-transfer requirements are included in the contract. Confirm that indemnity language aligns with insurance requirements and the law, AI coverage is mandated for operations, and waivers of subrogation and adequate limits are in place.
Prequalify subcontractors. Review their experience modification rate and total recordable incident rate. Verify that they meet safety, financial and insurance standards.
Perform audits annually. This maintains ongoing compliance efforts with insurance and contract requirements. Track policy expirations, request updated COIs and endorsements, and ensure subcontractors maintain insurance limits.
Document everything. Keep contracts, COIs, endorsements, change orders and approved exceptions. Accurate recordkeeping can help with claims handling and reduce disputes.

If you have questions, please contact a North Risk Partners Advisor.

Protecting Against Electrical Room Fires

Jarrica Walston — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 16:53:47 +0000

Electrical rooms can pose significant fire risks if not properly designed, built, and maintained. To protect people and property, it is essential for facilities to take targeted steps to mitigate these risks before they escalate.

Electrical room hazards often stem from preventable issues, including faulty electrical wiring, overloaded circuits, loose electrical connections, neglected maintenance, improper insulation, damaged or dirty equipment, overheating, electrical switch sparks, improper storage of flammable materials, static electricity, human error, and short circuits. Additionally, while not preventable, natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, or lightning strikes can damage electrical infrastructure and trigger fires or explosions.

To reduce the risk of electrical room fires, property managers and business owners should ensure appropriate design measures, safety protocols, and maintenance practices are in place.

Strategies to consider include the following:

Plan and layout the electrical room properly by following NFPA 70 guidelines for electrical design, installation, and inspection, as well as guidelines for access, dedicated electrical space, illumination, fire resistance and construction, signage and identification, egress, and workplace safety.
Install fire detection and suppression systems by using smoke detectors, heat sensors, and automatic fire suppression systems. Consult with fire protection professionals to ensure that systems are properly designed, installed, and maintained, meeting all applicable requirements and codes.
Control access by restricting entry into the electrical room to qualified and authorized personnel, thereby reducing the risk of tampering or accidental damage.
Ensure electrical safety best practices by creating, routinely reviewing, and enforcing thorough policies and procedures.
Utilize environmental controls, such as:
- Ventilation and cooling systems to prevent overheating
- Moisture control to prevent water intrusion, leaks, or condensation from forming and creating fire hazards
- Temperature regulation in the electrical room to add another safeguard against overheating
Conduct routine maintenance and inspections of equipment by regularly checking for wear, corrosion, and electrical faults to find and address issues early. Outdated components should be promptly replaced.
Train staff on electrical room safety hazards, the proper handling of flammable materials, the use of personal protective equipment, emergency procedures, fire extinguisher use, and how to report any issues.
Maintain housekeeping by adhering to a cleaning schedule, keeping the room and electrical components free of conductive dust or chemical residues, and ensuring the area is sealed against dirt and pests.
Have storage rules that require the room to be kept free of flammable or combustible materials (e.g., paper, cardboard, fuel, and cleaning supplies) and clutter.
Implement lockout/tagout procedures that ensure equipment is safely de-energized during maintenance to prevent accidental startup or shock.

Electrical room safety is an ongoing commitment, and proactive risk management is essential to prevent electrical room fires. By prioritizing preventive best practices, organizations can protect their infrastructure, safeguard personnel, and avoid fires.

If you have questions, please contact a North Risk Partners Risk Advisor.

Protecting Against AI Chatbot Errors

Jarrica Walston — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 16:41:33 +0000

Many businesses use artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots to enhance operational efficiency and improve customer satisfaction. However, as organizations increasingly adopt this tool, they may expose themselves to several vulnerabilities. It is imperative for business leaders to recognize these risks and take proactive steps to mitigate them.

For example, utilizing AI chatbots without proper safeguards can exposure businesses to the following:

Customer trust deterioration—When chatbots provide inaccurate, biased, or misleading information, customers may lose confidence in the brand.
Legal liability—Businesses may be held accountable for the chatbot’s misrepresentations about products, services, or policies.
Financial impacts—When chatbots make errors, businesses may face direct costs (e.g., refunds or compensation) as well as indirect losses (e.g., legal fees, regulatory fines, and lost customers).
Regulatory scrutiny—Chatbots that violate privacy, enable fraud, or deceive users in harmful ways may attract enforcement from regulators. AI tools are subject to existing consumer protection laws, and misuse can lead to investigations and penalties.
Security and privacy risks—Chatbots often handle sensitive customer data, and if it is improperly secured, they can be vulnerable to data breaches.
Disinformation and reputational attacks—Bad actors can manipulate chatbots to spread false information, impersonate individuals, or generate harmful content. These tactics can damage brand reputation, mislead customers, and undermine public confidence.

To reduce the risks associated with AI chatbots, organizations should consider the following actions:

Monitor and test regularly. Organizations should continuously evaluate chatbot performance through automated checks, real-time monitoring, and manual audits. They should also conduct scenario-based testing with realistic customer interactions.
Ensure human oversight. Organizations should establish clear protocols for human involvement in chatbot workflows, particularly for sensitive, complex, or high-impact interactions.
Use clear disclaimers. Organizations should clearly inform users that chatbot responses are generated by AI and may not constitute professional or authoritative advice.
Limit chatbot authority. Organizations should tightly control what actions chatbots can perform and implement robust safeguards to keep chatbots within approved boundaries.
Train chatbots with high-quality, diverse data. Organizations should train chatbots with accurate, current, and context-specific data relevant to their products and services. Data should include representation across demographics and geographies.
Implement robust data privacy measures. Organizations should implement strong safeguards to protect user data during chatbot interactions, including by collecting only the information necessary to fulfill their operational purpose. They should also obtain explicit user consent, offer opt-in and opt-out mechanisms, and allow users to control their data.
Create incident response plans. Organizations should develop specific incident response plans to manage the risks associated with chatbot failures.
Monitor and address disinformation campaigns. Organizations should implement strategies to detect and mitigate AI-driven disinformation.

Proactive risk management is essential for organizations using AI chatbots. It helps protect customers and build trust by minimizing harmful errors. By anticipating and addressing these risks early, organizations can avoid costly legal and regulatory repercussions and support sustainable AI adoption.

If you have questions, please contact a North Risk Partners Risk Advisor.

Operation Safe Driver Week 2025 Results

Jarrica Walston — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 16:25:58 +0000

Operation Safe Driver Week, an annual campaign conducted by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), took place from July 13–19, 2025, across the United States and Canada. Each year, law enforcement agencies participate in this weeklong initiative to detect and prevent unsafe driving behaviors among both commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers and passenger vehicle operators. The 2025 campaign focused on reckless, careless, and dangerous driving, highlighting the ongoing importance of promoting safety behind the wheel.

The purpose of Operation Safe Driver Week is not only to enforce traffic safety laws but also to raise awareness about the risks associated with unsafe driving. The results from this year’s campaign highlight how both commercial and noncommercial drivers continue to engage in behaviors that jeopardize roadway safety. By addressing these behaviors through education, training, and accountability, the industry can help prevent accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

Throughout the week, law enforcement officers stopped 8,739 drivers for risky behaviors, including speeding, distracted driving, and failure to wear seat belts. In total, 3,575 warnings and 2,504 citations were issued. Of those, there were 3,230 warnings and 1,839 citations to CMV drivers, and 345 warnings and 665 citations to passenger vehicle drivers.

The top reason for a citation for CMV and passenger vehicle drivers this year was speeding. Additionally, 27 drivers were issued tickets for possession/use/under the influence of drugs or alcohol—22 citations were issued to CMV drivers and 5 to passenger vehicle drivers.

The top passenger vehicle driver citations for both countries were as follows:

Speeding (176 citations)
Using a hand-held phone/texting/distracted driving (37 citations)
Failing to use a seat belt (16 citations)

The top CMV driver citations for both locations included the following:

Speeding (917 citations)
Failing to use a seat belt (248 citations)
Using a hand-held phone/texting/distracted driving (79 citations)

Trucking companies play an essential role in promoting safe driving. Encouraging defensive driving practices, reinforcing company safety policies, and providing regular training can help reduce violations and prevent collisions. Telematics tools and driver monitoring programs can also be used to identify and correct unsafe habits early.

The CVSA’s findings serve as a reminder that preventing reckless driving requires continuous effort from drivers, carriers, and enforcement alike. Promoting safe behaviors behind the wheel helps protect not only those operating large commercial vehicles but everyone sharing the road.

If you have questions, please contact a North Risk Partners Risk Advisor.

Cargo Spill Prevention Strategies

Jarrica Walston — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 16:17:44 +0000

A cargo spill occurs when goods, liquids, or raw materials are unintentionally released from a truck while in transit. Common examples include bulk dry goods, heavy equipment, packaged freight, livestock, and hazardous materials like oil or chemicals. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), shifting or falling cargo contributes to more than 3,000 highway accidents each year.

Cargo spills can disrupt business operations, damage reputations, and lead to costly litigation. Understanding why these incidents occur and taking proactive steps to prevent them can help trucking companies protect drivers, freight, and the public.

Common Causes of Cargo Spills

While every incident is unique, most cargo spills stem from a few preventable issues.

Improper loading—Cargo that’s unevenly distributed or exceeds vehicle weight limits can shift during travel, reducing traction and stability. This increases the risk of tire blowouts, steering issues, or rollovers.
Poor securement—Even properly loaded freight can move if it’s not tightly restrained. Cargo can slide or tip the trailer without approved tie-downs, straps, or chains.
Vehicle or driver issues—Mechanical breakdowns or unsafe driving behaviors, such as speeding, distracted driving, or abrupt lane changes, often trigger high-impact crashes like jackknife or fishtail incidents.

Spill Prevention Strategies

Effective spill prevention starts with clear policies, consistent training, and regular oversight.

Ensure proper loading and securement. Trucking companies should assess each vehicle and load type to ensure weight is evenly distributed and cargo is firmly secured using approved devices. Loads must never exceed the trailer’s rated capacity.
Maintain vehicles regularly. Routine inspections and documented maintenance schedules help prevent equipment failures. Drivers should inspect their trucks before and after each trip, checking for worn parts or damaged tie-downs, and report issues immediately.
Promote safe driving practices. Companies should emphasize defensive driving, compliance with traffic laws, and the elimination of distractions and impairment behind the wheel. Clear protocols for emergencies and breakdowns can further reduce risks.
Provide driver training. Ongoing education reinforces awareness of spill risks and prevention methods. Training should highlight how driver attentiveness and care directly impact safety.
Maintain regulatory compliance. The DOT and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration require specific loading and securement standards, especially for hazardous materials, food, and livestock. Companies should routinely audit their procedures and document compliance with all applicable regulations.

Protecting Your Fleet

Even with robust prevention programs, accidents can still occur. Comprehensive insurance coverage, such as commercial auto, workers’ compensation, environmental and pollution liability, and motor truck cargo insurance, can help mitigate losses and protect your business. By prioritizing safety, maintenance and compliance motor carries can reduce the risk of cargo spills, protect their workforce and the public.

If you have questions, please contact a North Risk Partners Risk Advisor.

Knowing the Difference Between Cold and Flu Symptoms

Jarrica Walston — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 20:25:53 +0000

The winter months are often associated with an increase in illnesses, particularly the common cold and seasonal influenza. These conditions can impact any workplace and spread quickly, leaving you and your co-workers with debilitating symptoms.

Though the common cold and seasonal influenza share several symptoms, there are points of differentiation that will help you identify which you may have in order to seek proper treatment. It is essential to distinguish between the two, as the flu can lead to more severe health complications, whereas the cold is generally less serious.

Common Cold Symptoms

Typically, symptoms of the common cold develop gradually, often starting with a sore throat or irritated sinuses. The most common symptoms of a cold are nasal congestion, sneezing, and a runny nose. Symptoms can also include a cough, mild headache, and minor body aches.

People are generally contagious during the first three days they have a cold. Symptoms typically subside within a week.

Seasonal Flu Symptoms

Unlike the common cold, flu symptoms usually come on suddenly and vigorously, often starting with a high-grade fever, headache, body aches, and fatigue. In addition, flu symptoms can include a dry cough, sore throat, and sometimes a runny or stuffy nose.

Symptoms are generally more severe than with a cold. Flu symptoms tend to gradually improve after two to five days, but can last for a week or more. You should stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone to avoid passing your illness to others.

Prevention

Some strategies can help you avoid contracting either of these conditions. These include frequent hand washing, sanitizing commonly touched surfaces, and avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. If you are sick, cough and sneeze into your elbow to prevent the spread of germs to others.

Treatment

For the common cold, a doctor visit is usually unnecessary. Over-the-counter medications can be effective in treating symptoms. For the flu, a doctor may prescribe antiviral medications that can help decrease the severity and duration of symptoms.

Potentially serious health complications can occur in people suffering from the flu. Call your doctor if you think your symptoms are worsening or if you have a condition such as asthma, diabetes, or are pregnant.

Safety First

Knowing the difference between the common cold and seasonal flu can help you better determine when it’s best to stay home from work and seek medical care. In doing so, you can protect yourself and minimize the spread of illness in the workplace, ultimately keeping everyone healthy and safe.

If you have questions, please contact a North Risk Partners Risk Advisor.