According to the United States Department of Labor Statistics, construction accidents account for thousands of injuries and 20% of all work-related fatalities.
With such grim statistics, it is essential for all stakeholders in the industry to understand the various types of construction accidents and how best to reduce the risks. More importantly, employees need to familiarize themselves with workers’ compensation laws so they can best protect their rights in the event of a workplace injury.
Workers’ compensation laws
Laws that govern workers’ compensation in the US vary from one state to another. In most cases, the laws require injured workers to collect benefits regardless of fault. In other words, you will be entitled to compensation for medical bills and lost wages if you get injured in the course and scope of employment.
However, it is not uncommon for employers and their insurers to deny workers’ compensation claims. That is why it is crucial to hire a skilled attorney such as JMlawyer.com if you get injured in a workplace accident.
Five common construction accidents and how to avoid them
1. Fall from high heights
Most construction projects involve working on high heights such as rooftops, ladders, and scaffolding. Falling from such heights can lead to severe injuries and accounts for a large percentage of all construction-related injuries.
To minimize these injuries, site supervisors and employers must ensure that all climbing equipment such as ladders and scaffolds are well designed and erected by competent persons. Additionally, they must be checked daily before the beginning of each workday to ensure they meet safety standards and are in good working condition.
2. Slips/Trips and falls
It is common to find a construction site with tools, materials, and debris laying all over the place. These obstacles can cause workers to trip and sustain serious injuries.
An effective way of keeping trip and fall accidents at a construction site is by ensuring that the working area is kept clear at all times. Additionally, construction managers should ensure that all floors remain dry to eliminate the possibility of slip and trip accidents.
3. Electrocutions
Until a construction project is complete, there will always be exposed wires, downed power lines, or faulty electrical machinery. These electrical lines and faulty equipment can result in electrocution accidents. The bad news is most electrocution accidents are fatal.
To minimize the possibility of electrocution accidents, site supervisors must ensure that areas with naked wires or high voltage are clearly marked and cordoned off to prevent accidents. Additionally, it is vital to have all electrical tools maintained and used in the right conditions to ensure that they do not pose the risk of electrocution.
4. Falling debris
Building materials, tools, and other objects can fall from heights and cause injuries to workers at a construction site. Depending on the height or the size of the falling objects, such accidents can result in serious injuries.
One way to protect workers from falling objects is by installing safety nets that catch or slow down falling objects, minimizing their impact. Additionally, employers must ensure that they provide their workers and with safety helmets and boots to protects their heads and feet in the vent that an object falls on them
5. Overexertion
Construction work is strenuous and demanding and can easily cause overexertion injuries on workers. This is especially so because the nature of work involves lifting heavy objects or performing repetitive tasks.
To minimize overexertion injuries on workers, employers should ensure that workers are adequately equipped for their work. For example, they could be provided with a back brace when lifting heavy objects or be supplied with ergonomically designed equipment when performing repetitive tasks. Additionally, ensure that your workers take adequate breaks when performing tasks requiring.
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