Electrocutions, equipment failures, slips, and falls — if you’re working in the construction industry or have family members who are, then you know that workers face dangerous conditions every day.
It’s not surprising to note that construction jobs are among the riskiest types of work. Statistics revealed that almost 20% of workplace deaths happen in the construction industry.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 1 in 10 construction workers is injured annually in the United States. In terms of the average number, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated that around 150,000 construction site accidents happen each year.
What’s surprising is that young workers — 25 to 34 years old — are commonly at risk of injury. Knowing how dangerous construction sites can be isn’t enough. It helps to know what the leading causes of accidents and construction injuries are as well.
In this blog, we will discuss the common causes of construction accidents. We’ll also explore different accident prevention tactics that you and your colleagues can follow to ensure workplace safety. At 1-800-ASK-GARY®, we aim to ensure you can recover from workplace accidents by referring you to the best legal and medical experts for your case.
Why Do So Many Construction Accidents Happen?
Sadly, many people don’t make it home safely to their loved ones because of construction accidents. These life-threatening mishaps occur because of unsafe conditions, missing fall protection measures, or the failure to follow job site safety protocols.
But what are the leading causes of death or serious injury to construction workers? The answer is OSHA’s Fatal Four: Falls, being struck by an object, electrocution, and being caught in or between. Let’s further discuss the hazards of these sites.
Falling From Heights Is the Top Killer
Have you seen construction workers walking along the edge of buildings under construction? Often, they are working at heights at which they can fall and suffer severe injuries or worse. More than one-third of construction deaths happen when workers slip off scaffolding, lose balance on ladders, or fall through unfinished floors.
Struck by Heavy Objects
Construction accidents also occur because of the equipment they use daily to build structures. Cranes, hammers, steel beams, hacksaws, and grinders pose significant threats to masons and other laborers. Without proper safety measures for heavy equipment, workers can be killed by the tools that they rely on for their livelihood.
Electrocutions — The Hidden Killers
Power lines and electrical wiring are all important in construction. But they are also construction hazards. Electrocutions cause around 8% of deaths in construction accidents. What’s alarming about these incidents is that workers don’t even realize they are at risk until they are electrocuted.
Caught In or Between Dangerous Machines
Getting caught in or between dangerous machines is a rare case. However, they do happen when construction sites lack efficient hazard control protocols. Getting crushed by collapsing walls, unstable trenches, or hydraulic metal press machines are some examples of what can happen on a job site. On average, they cause around 5% of all on-site deaths.
Keeping Yourself Safe From Construction Accidents
Construction accidents don’t just happen. They are caused by bad habits, lack of safety protocols, and ignored warnings. Many workers in the construction sector die every day. However, many deaths can also be avoided if safety measures are implemented and followed.
Following training, wearing the proper gear, and following safety plans are the keys to being safe on construction sites. There are also additional preventive measures that can save your life.
Train Hard or Get Hurt
Construction companies provide training, which includes real-world education on injury prevention, equipment usage, and emergency procedures. Make sure that you and your co-workers participate in these programs.
Wear Proper Gear
Not wearing gloves, wearing low-grade or improper boots, or not wearing a helmet can make it easier for you to be involved in a workplace mishap. Wearing proper construction safety gear isn’t an option that you can decline. It should be done before entering the site. Remember, construction accidents often happen because workers skip basic safety steps, such as wearing protective equipment.
Inspect Everything Before Working
Even if you’re just a laborer, checking everything before you start working is essential. Loose wires, rusted beams, and weak scaffolding can lead to falls, electrocutions, and other life-threatening accidents. If no one inspects the construction site, workers and site visitors can be at risk.
Follow Safety Protocols All the Time
Whether working or taking a lunch break, you must follow safety protocols. At the construction site, you shouldn’t ignore warnings, safety guides, and other preventive measures.
Use Construction Tools the Right Way
As a construction worker, you should know how to use grinders and other tools. However, if new equipment arrives, read the user manuals thoroughly or consult with an expert before using it.
Injured on the Job? Call 1-800-ASK-GARY Right Away!
Unfortunately, no matter how safe you are, construction accidents can happen fast. One wrong step, one faulty machine, and one bad habit can change your life or even have worse consequences.
When that happens, contact 1-800-ASK-GARY® immediately. With just one call, we can connect you with the right doctor for your medical needs and the perfect lawyer or attorney to handle your case.
Receive Proper Medical Care Quickly
Our helpline is available 24/7. We don’t care if it’s during business hours or if everyone is asleep. Once an accident happens, call us right away. We prioritize saving your life by referring you to healthcare providers who specialize in treating people with construction accidents and workplace injuries. Whether you need a surgeon, chiropractor, or doctor, we can connect you with the right medical professional.
Legal Support for Worker Compensation
No one wants to get injured or die at construction sites. You may be entitled to compensation if a mishap happens while you’re working. By connecting you with legal professionals specializing in construction accidents, your rights will be protected, and the compensation you can receive will be maximized.
You don’t have to go through this alone. Call us immediately so we can connect you with the help you need.