Do you want to prevent construction accidents at construction sites? Building anything, even a simple house, is not a walk in the park in the construction industry. Accidents are bound to happen.
But, there are ways to limit accidents in your site or workplace, if you know what causes them. Knowing the usual causes will help reduce their likelihood, or stop them before they even happen!
Are you about to start a construction project and want to know how to protect people working for you on the site? Keep reading for the notable causes of construction injuries and how to avoid them.
Falling Accidents
Falling accidents are a leading cause of injury and death in the construction industry. Falls can occur when workers are on unstable surfaces, on unsecured ladders, or when scaffolding is not properly built. When guardrails and other safety measures are not provided, workers can easily lose their balance and slip off the edge.
Defective protective gear and failure to follow safety regulations can lead to a tragic fall. Other common causes of construction falling accidents include
- slippery surfaces
- improper use of tools
- inadequate safety training
Employers must supervise their employees to ensure that safety precautions are taken. Workers must also remain vigilant for their safety while working in construction.
Struck-by Accidents
Struck-by accidents are one of the leading causes of construction-related fatalities and injuries. Common causes of struck-by accidents in the construction setting include
- objects being dropped or falling from above
- moving machinery
- swinging tools
- unintentional contact with an object in motion
Additionally, the misuse of tools and the failure to use safety equipment such as safety glasses and hard hats. This can lead to fatal or non-fatal struckby accidents. Often, these accidents occur when workers are distracted or are not paying attention to their surroundings.
All workers must receive proper safety training and be aware of the potential struck by hazards present at the worksite. Employers can also help reduce the risk of struck-by accidents by ensuring that workers are using the right equipment for the job. Also by providing a safe working environment with good visibility and warning signs.
Caught-In or Caught-Between
Caught-In or Caught-Between accidents happen when a worker gets stuck in or in between an object or machinery. This can lead to crushing injuries, amputations, or worse. Common causes of such accidents include
- lack of proper use of safety equipment
- unsafe working conditions
- overloaded machinery
Poor use of tools and lack of proper maintenance can also lead to accidents. Another major factor is overcrowding on the work site. If workers don't have enough space to work, they're more likely to get caught in or between an object or machinery, and result in an accident.
Furthermore, fatigue can be an issue and a leading cause of construction accidents. Workers who are overworked or pushed to their limits can be prone to operating machinery unsafely. Awareness about these issues can go a long way in protecting workers and preventing accidents.
Electrocutions
Electrocution is one of the leading causes of construction accidents. It is vital to be aware of this on job sites, as frequent use of electrical tools and machinery leads to an increased risk of electric shock. The factors that can lead to electrocution on construction sites includes
- poorly management of electrical equipment
- inexperienced contractors
- deferred or inadequate maintenance
- improper grounding
- working in wet conditions
- missing or inappropriately insulated tools
If a worker is injured on the job due to electrocution, they may be eligible to receive workers' compensation benefits. Employers must take the necessary steps to ensure that all construction safety protocols are respected on the job site. This is to avoid any electrocution-related accidents.
Slips & Trips
Slips and trips are the leading causes of construction accidents for workers on the job. Slips and trips can be caused by many factors, including
- walking on wet surfaces
- uneven surfaces
- inadequate lighting
- spills
- debris left on the ground
To prevent slips and trips, it is vital to wear work-appropriate clothing, ensure that all walkways are free from potential obstacles, and use appropriate lighting. Additionally, workers should immediately clean up any spills or debris. Though it may seem like a small thing, taking the time to clean up potential risks on the ground can prevent serious accidents.
To reduce worker injury risk, implement safety measures and be ready with first aid kits. These kits need refills to have adequate stocks and should be easily accessible and regularly inspected to ensure their condition. Accidents at work can be reduced by providing workers with protective equipment and emergency preparedness.
Vehicle Accidents
Vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of construction accidents. Most of these accidents result from
- driver inattention
- inadequate driver training
- unsafe equipment
- careless driving
- blind spots
- heavy machinery
Drivers run the risk of striking construction equipment or colliding with other vehicles due to unawareness of on-site driving conditions. Moreover, construction sites present constant and ever-changing situations, making the flow of traffic unpredictable and potentially dangerous.
Additionally, workers at times unreasonably attempt to move assets to their location, resulting in dangerous on-site conditions. An effective traffic management plan should be in place to ensure the safety of drivers and construction workers.
Exposure to Hazardous Materials
Exposure to hazardous materials is a primary cause of construction accidents. When workers are in a construction environment, they are exposed to potential workplace risks. It includes toxic fumes, asbestos, lead paint, solvents, and other hazardous materials.
In some cases, workers are unaware the environment is not safe, and they are put in danger when exposed to these hazardous materials. Other scenarios involve workers not following procedures and safety protocols designed for construction work. These lead to workers overexposing themselves or not wearing the appropriate protective gear for their environment, such as face masks, exposure suits, respirators, or gloves.
Learn the Causes of Construction Accidents
Construction accidents can have devastating consequences. We all must work to identify and address the underlying causes of such accidents. This includes having adequate safety procedures and protective gear.
Ensure proper training for workers, adequate supervision, and a focus on safe work practices. Together, we can ensure the safety of workers and mitigate the risk of dangerous accidents in the construction industry. Act now to help protect construction workers.
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