Even with an increase in construction safety training, there are still injuries on construction sites that occur daily. According to The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 20% of worker fatalities in private industry were in construction – accounting for just about one in every five worker deaths per year.

Avoiding Construction Injuries

Falls: These are the most common cause of injuries on construction sites. They are usually a result of uneven surfaces, improper use of ladders, improper mounting and dismounting from equipment, and lack of providing adequent fall protection.

Ways to avoid:

Using three points of contact when getting on and off of equipment
Following safety regulations for ladders
Keeping work areas clean and clear of clutter
Using fall equipment

Being struck by an object: Construction workers are at risk of being hit by a machine or falling objects. These usually result in brain or spinal injuries caused by tools or materials that aren't adequately secured.

Ways to avoid:

Secure materials and tools properly
Stack materials properly
Avoid close proximity to lifted or suspended loads
Verify a backup alarm installed on mobile equipment
Train employees not to position themselves between fixed and moving objects

Electrocution: Working on construction sites often exposes employees to wiring, flammable chemicals, or leaking pipes.

Ways to avoid:

Train employees to keep a safe distance from energized parts
Use all required PPE
De-energize equipment and use proper lockout and tag-out procedures

Trapped this is usually a result of a vehicle pinning a person against a wall, or getting their body parts trapped in a machine.

Ways to avoid:

Don't put your hands or body parts near moving objects
Avoid wearing long sleeves, jewelry, or other items that can get caught on moving objects
Avoid getting in the swing radius of a rotating object

Contact A Lawyer

If you or someone you know has been injured in a construction-related accident, you must contact a lawyer right away. They can be a great resource for understanding your case's details and your legal rights. Here at Emery Reddy Serious Injury Department we have the skill and experience to fight for cases just like yours. Let us help you.

Contact us at (206) 202-2562 or visit us online to schedule your free consultation with one of our attorneys today.