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Nearly half of employee injuries at small businesses over the last year were preventable, according to a report by Pie Insurance.
Seventy-five percent of small businesses reported incidents, the data showed, with 49% admitting to improvising safety measures due to a lack of proper equipment and more than 30% reporting over $20,000 on injury-related costs.
"Workplace safety isn’t just about preventing physical injuries—it’s essential to both employee well-being and a business’s long-term success,” said Carla Woodard, SVP of claims at Pie Insurance.
“Safety isn’t just a compliance checkbox—it’s a competitive advantage,” she added. “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 most common reported injuries were mental health-related issues at 22%, slips, trips and falls at 20%, cuts, lacerations and punctures at 18%, and overexertion and strain injuries at 13%.
“Addressing mental health in the workplace isn’t just about offering resources—it’s about creating a culture where employees feel safe and supported,” Woodard said.
“Our data shows a significant gap between perceived readiness and actual preparedness, highlighting possible demand for more structured mental health safety protocols,” she continued. “By taking proactive measures, businesses can not only reduce risks but also foster a more engaged and proactive workforce.”
Other key takeaways…
- Forty-six percent of small businesses view mental health as the greatest safety risk.
- Forty-two percent cite employee resistance as a major barrier to safety improvements.
- Sixty-two percent of small businesses with commercial vehicles use GPS tracking or telematics.
- Eighty-one percent are open to AI adoption, with 44% actively using it.
- Ninety-one percent have expressed confidence in their ability to address mental health risks, only 52% have formal mental health safety protocols in place.
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