Most Common Construction Site Accidents
Posted on June 27, 2022 in Work-Related Injuries
As someone working in the construction sector or if you have a loved one who does, you will be well aware of the potential accidents that can happen on a job site. Because of the increased risk of accidents on construction sites, it’s up to the liable parties to ensure that all safety measures are followed and the necessary precautions are taken. When these are not followed, accidents can occur. We share with you some of the most common construction site accidents in this article.
Slips & Trips
Slips & tips can result in falls, which are particularly dangerous if they happen from a height. This can result in catastrophic injuries or even death. To reduce the chances of this happening, all obstructions from direct paths should be removed and workers should be issued with proper walk boots. Falls can also happen on surface levels when slippery substances are not cleaned up timely or if there are pieces of equipment in the way.
Falling Objects
Objects that can fall from a height on a construction site include tools and other hard objects such as bricks. Although it may be impossible to prevent falling objects all the time, precautions should be taken by cordoning off the sections under ladders and scaffolding as a high-risk areas. In addition, all workers should be issued hard hats to be worn at all times on the job site.
Explosions
There are many hazards that can lead to a potential explosion on a construction site. This includes leaking gases as well as exposed piping on electrical wires. When an explosion occurs, any workers and visitors in the vicinity can be subject to serious burns, injuries and even death. To prevent this from happening, all mains should always be switched off when not in use. Workers should also undergo the necessary health & safety training when it comes to safeguarding against fires.
Machinery Accidents
Machinery accidents can happen in two main ways: If the equipment or machinery is not functioning as it should, or if the worker accidentally injures themselves or someone else. That is why machinery should only be operated by trained and licensed workers at all times. From cuts and broken bones to permanent disability, the impact of machinery accidents cannot be underestimated.
Vehicle Accidents
Unlike roads, where there are specific rules to follow, there is often no layout on a construction site for vehicles to abide by. Added to that are the different types of vehicles that can be found onsite, including bulldozers, trucks and cranes. The end result is a space that’s used both by vehicles and workers on foot, which can be a recipe for disaster.
To ensure optimal safety with vehicles on a job site, all vehicle operators must be licensed and receive refresher training from time to time. On top of that, warning lights, sirens, horns and signs should be put up to alert workers and visitors when a vehicle is approaching.
Have a construction accident case? Contact our experienced attorneys at Pazer, Epstein, Jaffe & Fein, P.C., for a free initial consultation today!