The quality of life for employees trapped in a cycle of overwork and low pay is suffering, according to a study by Eskimoz.
Financial stress, lack of downtime and long commutes create burnout, the data showed, leaving little room for career advancement or personal well-being.
At the same time, the most common injuries reported by small businesses over the last year were related to mental-health issues.
"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, senior vice president of claims at Pie Insurance.
“Addressing mental health in the workplace isn’t just about offering resources — it’s about creating a culture where employees feel safe and supported,” she added. “Data shows a significant gap between perceived readiness and actual preparedness, highlighting possible demand for more structured mental health safety protocols. By taking proactive measures, businesses can not only reduce risks but also foster a more engaged and proactive workforce.”
Meanwhile, a recent report by Pie Insurance showed nearly half of employee injuries at small businesses over the last year were preventable.
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.
“Safety isn’t just a compliance checkbox — it’s a competitive advantage,” said Woodard.
“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 slideshow above illustrates the top states where workers are overworked with low pay as selected by Eskimoz.
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