Construction sites can be dangerous working environments. There are often multiple crews, heavy equipment and materials, and a host of dangerous risks. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), one in five work-related fatalities occurs in the construction industry. OSHA points to the “fatal four” most common causes of injuries on construction sites. These include falls, being struck by an object, being caught between objects, and electrocutions.
Electrocution Injuries
Accidents involving electrocutions are some of the most serious because of the degree of injuries that can result. Extensive injuries from electrocution can have a life-long impact on a victim. Coming into contact with powerful voltage can damage the skin as well as the internal organs. Injuries can vary dramatically based on the amount of voltage, the sight of the shock, and the length of exposure. Some common electrocution injuries include:
- Burns which can range in severity
- Fractures caused by being thrown by the electric shock
- Head injuries caused by a fall or being thrown by the shock
- Muscle, nerve, and tissue damage caused by exposure to electricity
- Cardiac arrest
- Fatal electrocutions
Causes of Electrocutions
The owners and contractors in charge of a construction site have an obligation to ensure that the environment is safe for all workers. When they fail to do so, they may be liable for resulting injuries. The utmost care must be taken when it comes to electricity on a construction site. Some common causes of electrocution accidents include:
- Faulty wiring in work equipment
- Contact with overhead powerlines
- Contact with exposed wiring
- Failure to properly de-energize equipment after work is completed
- Contact with electric arcs
- Errors in wiring or rewiring
- Contact with buried underground powerlines
- Poorly marked electrical hazard areas
- Poorly maintained cords or tools
- Poor construction site lighting
Contact a Construction Accident Attorney
If you’ve been injured in a construction accident, you should consult with an experienced construction accident attorney. At Bonina & Bonina, P.C., we have been helping injured construction workers for over 50 years. Contact us online or call us at 1-888-MEDLAW1 to schedule your free consultation. Home and hospital visits are available. Se habla español.