Injuries that occur at a construction site are extremely serious and can lead to serious injuries in many cases. In fact, in 2010 alone, accidents at construction sites made up more fatal work injuries than in any other industry, according to information provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
If you work in the construction industry, it is imperative for you to know what the most common construction worker injuries are and how to prevent them. Here you can learn about six of the most common injuries that occur at construction sites and how you can take steps to prevent them.
1. Construction Worker Injuries Cause: Falls
Construction workers are constantly working from ladders, scaffolding and other elevated locations. As a result, the likelihood of them falling is high. In fact, falls are the top cause of construction worker injuries. Preventing falls requires workers to remain aware of what they are doing and take steps to reduce the risk of becoming off-balance.
2. Construction Worker Injuries Cause: Falling Objects
Another serious risk on construction sites is workers being struck by a falling object. It is possible for all types of items to be dropped or fall from an elevated location. If a person is struck by one of these objects, it can result in broken bones, TBIs, injuries to the head and neck, and more. It is wise for construction workers to wear a hard hat at all times while on construction sites to help prevent construction workerinjuries from falling objects.
3. Construction Worker Injuries: Equipment Accidents
The use of heavy machinery is extremely common on construction sites. In many cases, machinery may fail, or it could be extremely dangerous if it is not used properly. Additionally, workers may be hit and injured if they are not easily seen. Wearing bright colored clothing is one way to help ensure a construction worker isn’t injured by heavy equipment.
4. Construction Worker Injuries: Fires and Explosions
In many situations, construction sites have various hazardous materials present. When these items are exposed to flammable chemicals, they may cause a fire. While explosion and fire injuries are much less common, they are also the most dangerous and can lead to fatal injuries.
5. Construction Worker Injuries: Trench and Building Collapses
Workers are also often exposed to situations where new buildings or trenches are being constructed, or even demolished. The buildings that are being demolished may collapse suddenly, resulting ins serious injuries to those who are nearby or inside.
6. Construction Worker Injuries: Overexertion, Heat Stroke and Repetitive Motion Injuries
Each day, construction workers endure quite a bit of physical labor. Issues of joint and muscle damage, heat stress, hypothermia and motion injuries are extremely common if proper care is not taken.
When it comes to construction worker injuries, there are a number of problems that may occur. If you have suffered an injury, then it is best to contact an attorney for assistance. They can help you recoverbenefits to help pay for your medical costs and recovery. In the long run, having the services of a quality attorney may be the only way to get the results desired after a construction site accident.
More information about construction site injuries and when to hire an attorney can be found by contacting the team of attorneys at Sternberg | Forsythe, P.A. by calling 561-687-5660.
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