The environment surrounding construction sites is inherently hazardous because heavy machinery and equipment are involved. Using this equipment also introduces significant risks that lead to accidents and injuries each year.
Equipment accidents on construction sites are among the industry’s leading causes of fatalities and severe injuries. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), nearly 75% of struck-by fatalities involve heavy equipment like cranes and trucks, and construction workers are more likely to be injured or killed by being struck by equipment than workers in any other industry.
Types of equipment accidents and associated injuries
Equipment accidents on construction sites take on different scenarios, each presenting unique hazards and potential for serious injuries. Here are some of the most common types of equipment accidents and the associated injuries in the construction industry:
- Heavy machinery accidents: Common accidents involving equipment like bulldozers or excavators include rollovers, collisions and equipment malfunctions. Workers can sustain injuries such as fractures, crush injuries and amputations, which often result from being caught between moving parts or struck by equipment.
- Power tool incidents: Drills, saws and nail guns are indispensable on construction sites. However, improper use or malfunctioning tools can cause puncture wounds or lacerations.
- Struck-by accidents: These can happen when workers are hit by moving objects, such as swinging cranes, falling tools or moving vehicles. The injuries from these incidents can range from minor bruises to head injuries and traumatic brain injuries.
- Falls from equipment: Working on elevated platforms, ladders or scaffolding associated with equipment use can lead to falls. These falls can result in serious injuries such as spinal cord trauma, bone fractures or internal injuries.
Some of the preventative measures employees can observe include wearing safety gear, using the right equipment for the task and utilizing advanced safety technologies.
If one has suffered a workplace injury as an employee, they can benefit from seeking legal representation to help file a workers’ compensation claim. Securing benefits can allow workers to focus on healing, not their bank balance.