Accidents at Construction Sites - Causes & Prevention Tips

The likelihood of a major accident can still occur even if construction firms take precautions. It's not uncommon for construction accidents to happen on own. This happens due to a cascade of events leading up to the incident.

Falls

Construction sites are prone to fall risks, which should not be surprising. In 2016, 1000 deaths of construction site workers were caused by this cause.

A construction site may not always be equipped with appropriate fall protection. Safety issues in scaffolding construction can also pose a hefty risk, especially since scaffolding safety issues are one of the most frequent causes of falls.

Employers must protect their workers and contractors in the workplace. There are several ways to reduce the risk of falling while working, such as harnesses, toe rails around open platforms, handrails, and personal protective equipment.

Slips & Trips

Construction sites present a particular danger, one of the reasons for most workplace accidents. Myriad hazards, such as holes, equipment, uneven terrain, or weather conditions, can cause slipping or falling. Despite training and precautions, accidents are still possible.

Worker awareness of work-related hazards is paramount. Employers can reduce risk by emphasizing caution, marking any slip and trip hazards, and encouraging workers to stay alert.

Electrocutions

The most common cause of workplace fatalities is electrocution. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, More than 80% of workplace fatalities are caused by electrocution. Construction site workers are still at risk for electrocution, which has historically been higher.

Prevention

Electrocution can occur for many reasons, but most of these incidents are preventable if precautions are taken. As powerful tools in preventing electrocution, training and personal protective equipment (PPE) are required for construction safety. Employees must understand that wearing PPE is an obligation, not an option.

Struck by an object

Nearly 100 workplace deaths were caused by objects striking workers in 2016, making up almost 10% of workplace fatalities for the year. There are a variety of objects that fall from above, debris that flies through the air, and loads that move around.

These situations catch workers off guard when they occur. As a result, they are unable to react in time to escape danger. They often do not know what they are doing when they are hit.

Prevention

Use protective gear such as face masks, eyewear, etc. when working with power tools to combat this threat. Securing tools and machinery should be a priority. Even when there is no work being performed, wear a hard hat around the construction site.

A suspended load should never be stepped on. Finally, let machine operators and other workers know that you are visible on the construction site.

Getting Caught & Crushed

These types of construction accidents, which are called caught in between, occurred over 70 times in 2016 alone. An industrial worker can suffer an accident when his or her body gets caught, squeezed, or crushed between objects. Unguarded machines and rollovers of construction equipment can result in caught-in-between cases.

Prevention

You should make sure that no machine is left unattended to minimize this risk. It is important that only authorized operators operate the machine or equipment. Your team should be aware of any potential crush points or other moving parts that may cause them harm.

Whenever you work on machines or equipment, lockout or Tag-out procedures are critical to prevent unexpected restarts. You should also keep an eye on the appearance and clothing of your employees. Jewelry, loose shirts, and long hair can all get entangled in machines.

Conclusion

The reputation of the company can also be damaged when a construction worker is injured in an accident. Most construction accidents can be prevented, so companies should take all possible precautions to train, educate, and protect their employees.

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