According to data from the 2016 Jobs Rated report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and other information gathered from various trade organizations, construction is ranked as one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs for 2016. OSHA statistics show that one in five workplace fatalities occurs in a construction accident.
A construction site is naturally considered a high risk environment because it is loaded with heavy machinery, scaffolding, sharp tools and hazardous materials. Some of the most common types of construction accidents include the following:
- Falls – construction workers often work on higher levels and are required to climb onto roofs, scaffolds and ladders in order to do their job. Falls from these types of heights often result in catastrophic injuries. Data from OSHA shows falls account from roughly 39 percent of all construction accidents.
- Slip and fall accidents – with all of the uneven ground, loose tools, wires, cords, open holes, trenches, slippery surfaces and debris on construction sites, workers at risk for slip and fall injuries.
- Electrocution accidents – electrocutions are one of the most common types of accidents on construction sites. Most building contain loose wires and unfinished electrical systems, which puts workers at risk for electrical shock.
- Struck by accidents – falling objects are a common hazard on construction sites and causes workers to be struck or trapped by machinery, tools, wooden planks, sharp objects and debris.
- Explosions and fires – electrical wires, gas lines, flammable chemicals and explosives are usually found on construction sites. When the proper precautions aren’t taken, the smallest spark can set these substances off.
- Overexertion – construction workers often work in harsh weather conditions and operate with heavy machinery. That said, they are prone to overexertion and can fall victim to heat strokes.
According to OSHA, most workplace accidents are preventable if the proper precautions are taken and safety regulations are complied with. Employers have a responsibility to provide all construction workers with the proper training, regularly perform maintenance on all equipment and provide a safe workplace environment.
The Law Office of Stanley A. Davis is a personal injury law firm in Nashville, Tennessee that fights for those injured in workplace accidents.
“Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.” Ephesians 4:28