The construction industry is inherently dangerous due to heavy labor, working with large, bulky and/or sharp equipment, and a strained work environment (eg. extreme temperatures, wind, working at heights, etc.).
The tools of the trades – drills, saws, heavy machinery, scaffolding, electricity, and much more – pose a threat to workers if used improperly. It is generally the responsibility of the General Contractor to monitor overall project safety and the responsibility of the employer/contractor to properly train and equip employees.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, out of 3,929 worker fatalities that occurred in private industry in 2013, 796 or 20.3% were construction accidents. That means that one in five worker deaths last year were due to construction injuries. The leading causes of worker deaths on construction sites, referred to as the “Fatal Four”, were:
- Falls
- Struck by object
- Electrocution
- Caught-in/between
These Fatal Four construction injuries were responsible for more than half or 58.7% of the construction worker deaths in 2013. Eliminating the Fatal Four would save 468 workers' lives in America every year.
Three Steps to Prevent Construction Accidents
OSHA's Fall Prevention Campaign provides us with three easy to remember words that will help you prevent construction site accidents.
Plan ahead to get the job done safely. When estimating the cost of a job, your employer should include safety equipment, and plan to have all the necessary equipment and tools available at the construction site. Do you feel your employer plans ahead?
Provide the right equipment. As a construction worker, you should always be provided with the correct type of tools you need to get the job done safely. Do you feel your employer provides you with the right equipment?
Train everyone to use the equipment safely. It is the responsibility of your employer to train workers in hazard recognition and in the care and safe use of equipment. Do you feel you were properly trained for safe use of construction equipment?
Located in Chicago, Illinois, Lipkin & Apter' team of professional personal injury attorneys are here to help you with your construction accident claim. For more information, or to schedule a free consultation with our personal injury lawyers, contact us today.