Construction workers face several hazards every day, and whether it’s a small build or a large project, accidents on construction sites are common.
OSHA estimates that 20% of construction site accidents result in fatalities, and this is a sobering statistic. Sometimes, not even protective gear is enough to protect you from hazards like falling beams or accidental falls into a freshly dug hole.
To help guide you, here’s a look at some of the common accidents occurring on construction sites and what you can do to help protect yourself.
Common Accidents on Construction Sites
The Bureau of Labor Statistics, also known as The BLS, reported slips, falls, and trips on construction sites were higher than in any other industry in 2020. Construction workers face a variety of hazards every day while they’re on the job.
Falls
Construction workers often find themselves working off of the ground and this increases their risks of falls. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) issued over 5,400 violations to construction sites in 2021 for failing to provide workers with adequate protection.
All construction workers should wear tethered safety harnesses to help minimize employees' risk of falling. Construction sites may also want to install a temporary guardrail since the guardrail can effectively prevent the majority of falls from scaffolding. When it’s not possible to install guardrails, employees should always wear a properly fitting harness.
Struck-by an Object
OSHA defines a stuck-by accident as an incident that occurs when someone is hit by a swinging, falling, rolling, or flying object, which can include being hit by a moving vehicle like a forklift or backhoe. A tool flying out of someone’s hand is another example of this type of work-related accident.
Some of these accidents are fatal, making it crucial for everyone at the construction site to always wear protective headgear. There’s a good reason why construction is required to wear hard hats. The hat can protect you from head trauma that can be fatal or result in life-altering injuries.
When construction crews are working off of the ground, think ladders and scaffolding, all tools should be securely attached to their belts. Even getting hit by a hammer falling from a couple of feet can have devastating consequences. If heavy machinery is part of the construction site, all operators should be aware of their surroundings and never run the equipment while others are nearby.
Electrical Hazards
An effective way of avoiding potential electrical hazards like faulty wiring, live power lines, improperly used extension cords, and damaged power tools is to take the Assured Equipment Grounding Conductor Program (AEGCP).
Offered through OSHA, the brief program teaches construction workers how to prevent and avoid electrical hazards. Along with sitting through the short safety class, all electrical equipment and power cords should be inspected daily before starting work. Sometimes, finding a frayed electrical cord is enough to prevent accidental electrocution.
Caught-Between Accidents
Thankfully, being caught between objects like a wall and heavy equipment isn’t as common as some other construction site accidents. This type of incident typically results in severe injuries that can include broken bones and crushed internal organs.
Some simple safety steps can help you avoid this type of incident at your construction site, which includes ensuring all workers wear high-visibility clothing. Think of fluorescent safety vests, hats, and jackets. Yes, there’s a reason hard hats are typically yellow. The bright color is easily visible at a distance.
Caught-between accidents can also occur underground. For example, if a trench caves in. Whenever possible, try to install a temporary support system when employees are working underground. Cave-ins can result in significant injuries and extracting trapped personnel is costly and time-consuming.
Slips and Trips
Slips and trips are some of the most common construction site accidents. Workers can trip over electrical cords and slip on wet ground. Even material lying around waiting to be used presents a potential hazard.
Keeping the work site as organized and clean as possible is a good start. Try to keep materials waiting to be used out of the walk and pathways. Use signage whenever possible to alert workers to wet and slippery areas. You also want to keep all tools picked up and the area free from debris. Placing trash cans around the site can limit the amount of trash that ends up on the ground.
You may even want to assign the clean-up and organization tasks to a few employees. Have them inspect the site throughout the day, looking for any potential hazards that can result in a slip or trip.
Fires and Explosions
Fires and explosions are not limited to construction sites demolishing a building. Anything from a poorly functioning power tool to a malfunctioning generator can cause a fire. Even smoking a cigarette on a break can be a fire hazard. Don’t forget about heavy machinery. Engines can also catch on fire.
To minimize these risks at your construction site, keep fire extinguishers charged and easily accessible. You’ll need more than one fire extinguisher, even on smaller construction projects. If you’re working with flammable materials, keep away from open flames. This can even apply to using hot tools near anything prone to catching on fire.
Overexertion
Overexertion can occur in almost any industry, including on construction sites. Construction workers often find themselves bending over for prolonged periods and working in awkward positions. Over time, this can result in a range of injuries, including muscle strains, torn tendons, and back problems, to name a few.
While OSHA has ergonomic guidelines, you may also want to create a schedule for your employees to follow. This can include investing in ergonomically designed tools, requiring workers to take mandatory breaks, and adding equipment like a workbench or sawhorse to help minimize back pain.
You also want to encourage workers to let you know when they’re starting to feel the strain of being in the same position for an extended period.
Contact An Attorney If You’re Injured At Work
Despite adhering to all safety measures, accidents at construction sites can still happen. If you suffer an injury at work, it's important to reach out to an accident attorney. Filing an insurance claim without legal representation might not be in your best interest.
An experienced attorney can guide you through the process, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the appropriate compensation for your injury.
