Most people recognize that construction is one of the most dangerous professions. Construction workers are at an elevated risk of getting hurt on the job and have a substantially higher risk of dying at work.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) identifies numerous workplace risk factors as safety concerns for construction employees. Falls and electrocution are common causes of injuries and fatal accidents at construction sites. ‘Struck-by’ accidents are also among the top causes of fatal injuries suffered by construction workers.
Loose equipment and supplies are a constant source of risk
No matter how cautious you are at work, the other people on a construction site can still endanger you with their habits. Someone higher up may fail to secure something heavy, and that can have tragic results for you.
Some struck-by accidents are frankly unpreventable. They are the result of a freak gust of wind or an inexplicable failure of Machinery. However, many struck-by incidents are the results of far more banal circumstances.
Another construction worker, pressed for time or frustrated by the repetition involved, chooses not to tether or secure supplies, tools or machinery. When a piece of equipment backs up and causes the whole structure to shake or a worker bumps something with their boot, heavy items could come tumbling down, putting everyone below at risk.
Construction workers hurt by falling objects and surviving family members of employees killed by falling objects can file workers’ compensation claims. In cases where there was a clear violation of safety practices involved, a civil lawsuit may also be an option. Knowing your rights before a construction accident occurs will make taking action easier if you experience one.