Construction workers have one of the most hazardous jobs in the world. This means that construction accidents are unfortunately common. The nature of their work exposes them to several risks, and workplace accidents happen more often than we’d like them to. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), around 20% of workplace fatalities occur in the construction industry. These statistics should be alarming to both construction workers and employers. Click here for more information on workplace injury statistics. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the leading causes of construction accidents. By understanding these causes, both employers and employees can take steps to minimize the risks and prevent accidents.
Lack of Protection From Falling Objects:
Construction sites are busy places, and there’s often a lot of activity going on at once. With several workers at different heights, there’s always a risk of falling objects. One worker could drop something or cause something to fall that could be dangerous to other workers if it hits them.
Common Falling Objects Which Cause Construction Accidents:
- Power tools
- Debris
- Hooks
- Chains
These falling objects can seriously injure or kill workers if not properly secured to protect those below. Some serious injuries that could result from falling objects include broken bones, scarring, or paralysis. To prevent such accidents, all loose debris, tools, and materials should be appropriately secured or covered when not in use.
Unsafe Equipment:
Construction workers use a variety of equipment, such as cranes, scaffolds, and power tools, to get their job done. If this equipment is poorly maintained, defective, or misused, it can pose a grave danger to workers. OSHA reports that defective machinery and equipment are some of the most common causes of construction accidents. Therefore, it is crucial to inspect all equipment regularly and ensure that they are in good working order.
Lack of Safety Precautions Can Cause Construction Accidents:
Employers must provide employees with a safe working environment and follow OSHA safety standards. This includes providing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, gloves, and safety goggles and training employees on how to use them correctly. Failure to provide PPE, on-site safety training, or follow OSHA safety standards can result in serious accidents.
Tripping Hazards:
Construction sites have several potential tripping hazards, such as uneven surfaces, debris, and wires. If an employer does not deal with these hazards, workers can trip and fall, leading to serious injuries. Employers must ensure that the worksite is clean, free of debris, and that employees are trained to recognize and avoid tripping hazards.
Unsafe Conditions:
Unsafe conditions can lead to construction accidents. Examples of these unsafe conditions include exposed wiring, lack of lighting, and inadequate walkways.
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Exposed Wiring
Exposed wiring is one of the most common hazardous conditions in a construction site. This hazard is caused by the improper installation or maintenance of electrical systems, such as power tools or temporary wiring. If left unchecked, exposed wiring can lead to electrocution, electrical shock, and even electrocution. Employers must ensure that all electrical wiring is properly maintained and installed, and that electrical hazards are marked and isolated.
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Lack of Lighting
Insufficient lighting is another significant safety hazard on construction sites. Poor lighting makes it challenging for workers to navigate the work area and identify potential hazards like holes, debris, or dangerous tools. This can result in workers tripping, falling, or even suffering head injuries. Employers should provide sufficient lighting for all work areas, including entrances, walkways, and stairwells. All lighting fixtures should be regularly maintained and tested to ensure they are working correctly.
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Inadequate Walkways
A lack of adequate walkways is a common hazard in construction sites. Uneven or obstructed walkways, or walkways that are not wide enough, can cause workers to trip, slip, or fall. These accidents can result in serious injuries, including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and even death. Employers must ensure that all walkways are properly maintained and clearly marked. In case of a temporary walkway, it should be well-lit, easy to navigate, and have slip-resistant surfaces.
Construction accidents have long-lasting consequences, from physical injuries to psychological trauma and even death. It is important to get the representation you deserve if you are a construction accident victim. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, it’s essential to seek legal help from our experienced lawyers in Brooklyn. Together, we can make construction sites safer and prevent accidents from happening.