Many workplace hazards can lead to serious injury or death for construction professionals. Working at an elevation means they are at risk of falling. Being below grade creates the risk of a caught-between incident if a cave-in occurs.
They work in close proximity to heavy equipment that can cause crush injuries. Exposure to electricity is also a consistent workplace safety concern in construction. Workers exposed to electricity can suffer burns or experience electrocution, which can stop their hearts and cause brain damage.
Electrical incidents can require emergency medical care to treat and can prevent workers from performing their jobs for days, if not weeks.
How do electrical injuries occur?
There are many ways for workers to end up injured by electricity on the job. In some cases, injuries occur during the installation of electrical systems at properties. Working with wiring is inherently dangerous.
Other safety hazards relate to the use of temporary electrical supply at a construction site. Ground faults can occur and expose workers to dangerous levels of electricity. Other grounding issues can also increase the risk of electrocution, as can the improper use of power tools.
Operating heavy equipment near existing power lines can also lead to accidental contact and electrical injuries. Tools used at busy work sites may experience significant wear that damages their cords and leaves wires exposed. Tools might also have defects that lead to them shorting out and injuring a worker.
Workers’ compensation can help cover medical costs and replace a worker’s wages after an electrical incident at a construction site. Learning about and avoiding top safety hazards can help construction workers avoid injuries, and awareness of benefits can help them recover after injury.