By: The Barnes Firm - 14 December, 2020
Construction is a lucrative industry in America, yet it can also be a dangerous one. The most recent statistics from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) indicate that more than 20% of all worker fatalities in the private sector were in the construction industry. More than half of those construction site fatalities are the result of four specific construction site injuries. These fatal injuries, dubbed “The Fatal Four,” include falls, getting struck by an object, electrocution, and being caught-in/between structures.
Working on a construction site is a profitable way to make a living, but there are precautions that workers and employers must take to ensure safe working conditions for all. Construction sites should always have safety gear available for workers and forepersons. The most critical pieces of equipment that can make a dramatic impact on the level of safety at a construction site includes the following:
OSHA statistics show that many fatal injuries occur from being struck by objects falling. If a heavy object falls on a construction worker’s head, he or she might have a severe concussion, permanent brain damage, or worse. Wearing a hard helmet while on a construction site helps to mitigate the danger of objects falling and, when worn correctly, can save lives.
There are all sorts of small, harmful particles that can fly in the air on a construction site that can cause harm. Sawdust and projectiles from bulldozing and welding activities that get in your eyes can cause severe damage to your vision. Always wear goggles or some form of eye protection when working on a construction site.
Like objects falling that can cause brain damage, heavy objects can land on your feet that can cause painful foot fractures. Your feet are in even more danger from objects falling from above because you could accidentally drop something onto your foot as a result. Depending on how heavy the object is and how high it falls, striking an unprotected foot can cause severe injuries and limit your mobility for a substantial amount of time.
A construction site is filled with noise that can cause hearing loss if you’re not careful. Sounds of drills and saws for extended periods will slowly, but surely, hinder your hearing abilities. Hearing loss isn’t recovered once it’s gone, and the loss can critically impact your overall quality of life. Wearing proper earplugs and hearing protection is vital on construction sites.
OSHA lists falling as one of the “Fatal Four” injuries that can occur on a construction site. A construction site should always have forms of fall protection to prevent workers from deadly falls. Types of fall protection equipment include harnesses, nets, safety belts, and fall arrest gear. Anytime workers are six feet or higher above ground, they should always wear fall arrest gear that can save their lives.
Construction employers are required under federal law to provide each of the previously mentioned forms of safety gear. With very few exceptions, employers are legally required to offer the following safety gear for workers on construction sites:
Employers who fail to provide these items risk liability for any injuries or fatalities that can occur on-site. Because severe injuries are so common at construction sites, these safety precautions should never be overlooked.
If your employer failed to provide safety gear that’s federally required while working on a construction site, they’re legally responsible for any injuries that occur. The Barnes Firm specializes in helping personal injury victims receive compensation after they’re hurt by someone else’s negligence. We highly recommend that you first seek medical attention for your injuries. After that, contact one of our best construction injury attorneys.
We’ve helped countless victims receive thousands of dollars in settlements for their workplace injuries, and we can help you too. To schedule a free consultation regarding your accident, complete an online contact form or give us a call today.
The Barnes Firm (800) 800-0000
Explore Articles Related to Your Situation
While construction is an essential industry that employs millions of Americans, it also poses h...
read moreIn a busy city such as New York, construction sites are a constant occurrence. Construction is ...
read moreProfessionals in the medical industry often undergo years of schooling to help treat patients a...
read moreInsurance companies like to say they’re a “good neighbor” or they’re “on your side....
read moreWe are always available to discuss your case. Give us a call at (800) 800-0000.
Fill out our form and we will contact you shortly to discuss your case
Our attorneys will come to your home, office or hospital at your convenience.
We are available anytime, including after hours and
weekends.
420 Lexington Avenue
Suite #2140
New York, NY 10170
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
600 Old Country Road
Suite #425
Garden City, NY 11530
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
500 Pearl Street
Suite #700
Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
451 Grider Street
Buffalo, NY 14215
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
28 East Main Street
Suite #600
Rochester, NY 14614
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (800) 853-5153
633 West 5th Street
Suite #1750
Los Angeles, CA 90071
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (888) 800-7050
555 12th Street
Suite #1470
Oakland, CA 94607
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (888) 800-7050
655 W. Broadway
Suite #940
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: (800) 800-0000
Fax: +1 (888) 800-7050