The Most Common Workplace retail Injuries (And How to Prevent Them)

In retail, the work never really stops – there’s always stock to unpack, shelves to fill, and customers to help. Whether your team are frontline or out the back, there are plenty of ways small aches can turn into bigger problems if they’re not looked after early. Injuries are part of the job for many retail workers, but most can be prevented with the right awareness, smart habits, and early action when something doesn’t feel quite right. Here are some of the most common injuries in retail and what can be done to stop them before they slow you down.

By Hannah O’Connor (She/Her), Early Intervention Team Lead | Habit Health Wellington

1. Sprains, strains and soft tissue injuries

Sprains and strains are some of the most common injuries in retail. They often happen during manual handling tasks like lifting boxes, reaching for stock, or bending awkwardly. Sometimes it’s not one big moment that causes the problem, it’s a series of small, repetitive movements that build up over time.

When stores are busy or short-staffed, it’s easy to forget about safe lifting techniques or skip a quick stretch break. That’s when injuries to the back, shoulders and arms are more likely to occur.

Prevention tips:

• Use proper lifting techniques and ask for help with heavier loads.
• Take short breaks to stretch and reset your posture.
• Mix up your tasks where possible to avoid repetitive strain.

2. Slips, trips and falls

Retail spaces can get busy, especially during peak seasons. Slippery floors, poor lighting or cluttered aisles can easily lead to slips, trips and falls. Even a small fall can cause painful injuries like sprained wrists or bruised knees.

Prevention tips:

• Keep floors clean and dry at all times.
• Store boxes and stock safely to keep walkways clear.
• Choose footwear with good grip and support.

3. Repetitive strain and overuse injuries

Checkout work, restocking shelves and scanning products all involve repetitive movements. Over time, these can lead to pain or conditions like tendonitis or carpal tunnel syndrome. Standing in one spot for too long can also cause knee, hip or back pain if posture or footwear isn’t right.

Prevention tips:

• Take micro breaks to stretch your hands, wrists and shoulders.
• Use anti-fatigue mats or supportive shoes if you’re standing all day.
• Review workstation setups to make sure they encourage good posture.

4. Fatigue and shift-related injuries

Fatigue is one of the biggest hidden risks in retail. Long hours, irregular shifts and busy periods can lead to tiredness that affects focus, balance and coordination. When people are running on low energy, accidents are more likely to happen.

Prevention tips:

• Make sure staff get proper rest between shifts.
• Avoid scheduling back-to-back physically demanding shifts.
• Check in with teammates regularly, especially during busy times.

5. Equipment and stock handling injuries

Using trolleys, pallet jacks or ladders incorrectly can cause serious injuries like bruising, crush injuries or falls. These kinds of incidents are usually preventable with the right training and a bit of caution.

Prevention tips:

• Keep storage and loading areas tidy and well lit.
• Check equipment regularly to make sure it’s in good working order.
• Offer regular refresher training on how to use equipment safely.

Why early intervention matters

Early intervention can make all the difference when it comes to recovery and long-term health.

A sore shoulder, a tight back, or a bit of discomfort in the knees might not seem like much at first, but these are often the first warning signs that your body needs a break. Getting support early can stop a small issue from turning into something more serious, and help you stay at work rather than needing time off.

When employees are encouraged to speak up about discomfort or pain, it creates a stronger, safer workplace culture. Managers can step in sooner with small adjustments, like changing a workstation setup, rotating tasks, or arranging early physiotherapy input.

It’s always easier to treat a small strain than a major injury, and early action helps everyone. Less downtime, less pain, and a faster recovery all round.

Creating a culture of prevention

In the end, preventing injuries is about more than just training or policies. It’s about creating a workplace where people look out for each other and feel comfortable speaking up when something doesn’t feel right.

When prevention and early support become part of everyday workplace culture, everyone benefits. Teams work more smoothly, morale stays high, and fewer people end up with long-term pain or injury.

By paying attention to the small signs and encouraging open conversations about safety, retail workplaces can become healthier, happier places to work, one small change at a time.

Want to reduce workplace injuries in your retail team?

Early support can make all the difference.

Enquire online or email workplace@habit.health to learn more about injury prevention and workplace health services.