Construction sites can be hazardous. In fact, construction work is one of the most dangerous jobs in the United States. The rate of fatalities for construction workers is the third highest in the United States with 15.2 deaths per every 100,000 workers. There are only two other industries that have a higher fatality rate than construction – mining and agriculture.
Construction is a hazardous industry that includes a wide range of activities that involve construction, alterations, and repairs. Examples of the types of work in the construction industry include residential and commercial construction, the building of roads including paving, excavations, demolitions, bridge erection, and large commercial painting jobs.
John (Jack) Zinda
Founder / CEO
Over 100 years of combined experience representing injured victims across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationMost construction sites cannot completely exclude non-workers, such as road construction which must allow traffic to pass through. This can place non-workers at risk of injury if the site is set up improperly or the workers are negligent or working in an unsafe manner. The majority of deaths that occur on a construction site are caused by hazards relating to actual construction activity. There are more than 700 deaths each year in highway work zone crashes alone and another 37,000 suffer disabling injuries. Speeding and aggressive driving are two major reasons workers suffer in work zone crashes.
Construction workers often engage in activities that may expose them to serious health hazards or injuries. The leading hazards that cause injuries on construction sites are:
- Falls from heights
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Excavation accidents
- Electrocution
- Malfunctioning machines
- Being struck by equipment or falling objects
The leading health hazards confronted by workers on constructions sites include:
- Asbestos and silica dust – inhalation can result in mesothelioma and even death
- Solvents – cause internal and external injuries when inhaled or come in contact with the skin
- Noise – can lead to loss of hearing
- Defective tools – causes injuries due to defectives or misuse
How You Can Mitigate Construction Hazards
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets and enforces regulations and standards concerning workplace safety and health. OSHA also recommends ways to mitigate the hazards of construction including the following:
- Personal protective equipment – hard hats and steel toe boots are common personal protective equipment that must be worn by construction workers. Other protective equipment such as brightly colored, high visibility clothing, gloves and goggles are also recommended.
- Falls from heights – fall protection can be provided through the use of guardrail systems, warning line systems that encompass safety nets, personal fall arrest systems, and positioning device systems.
- Motor vehicle accidents – motor vehicle accidents can be avoided through the use of brake systems, audible warning systems, and devices that keep windows and doors clear and barrier free.
- Excavation accidents – identifying the location of utilities prior to excavation along with providing adequate signage along with ramps and defined pathways often improve hazardous excavation sites.
- Electrocution – all employees should undergo safety and training before they are allowed to work in areas where electrocution is a possibility.
- Toxic and hazardous materials – eye, face, and respiratory protection devices should be provided and protective clothing and gloves are recommended.
Neil Solomon
Partner
Real results matter. We do not get paid unless we win your case.
Available 24 / 7|Free ConsultationConstruction sites that are poorly designed or improperly inspected can be dangerous to both workers and innocent bystanders. Whether your injury happened because a person was negligent, due to unsafe working conditions, improper training, or because someone was driving too fast, you may be entitled to file for compensation for your injuries. Our attorneys are knowledgeable and experienced. Contact the attorneys at Zinda Law Group in Bryan College Station today for a free, no fee, consultation.
Jason Aldridge
Attorney
We have successfully represented clients in a wide variety of cases across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free Consultation
