Valued at over $2 trillion, construction is one of the biggest sectors in the U.S. economy. The industry provides a lot of well-paying jobs. Nonetheless, there are some drawbacks.
On any list of dangerous occupations, construction work will be on there. What are some of the more prominent risks you face as a construction worker?
1. Slips and falls
There are numerous hazards in construction, but there are four that are especially prominent. The first of these is slips and falls. Construction workers spend much of their time on sites where there may be trip hazards like cables, trenches, potholes, uneven surfaces and other obstacles.
On top of that, workers tend to spend a lot of time up ladders or working on high platforms. Falls from any height are dangerous, but the higher a construction worker is, the greater the risk of severe injuries and even death.
2. Electrocution
Electrocution is another prominent risk factor for construction workers. Workers may be working on sites that contain a faulty electrical infrastructure. In such instances, it’s vital that hazards are identified and electricity to those areas is shut off.
Another electrocution risk is overhead power lines. Some buildings and machinery reach or even exceed the height of overhead power cables. This must be factored into the plans for the project.
3. Struck by accidents
There is always movement on construction sites. This can be vehicles moving from place to place or people heading from one area to another. What this means is that there is a chance of being struck by objects. For example, when a crane, tractor, truck or other vehicle is on the move, they could strike a worker. Being able to navigate from one place to another is a crucial component of construction safety.
4. “Caught in between” accidents
The causes of “caught in between” accidents are quite similar to struck-by accidents, but the outcome is different. For example, rather than being struck by a truck or other piece of heavy machinery, a worker may find themselves trapped between two areas. These types of accidents almost always result in life-changing injuries and they can be fatal.
There are always going to be risks in construction, but these should be kept to a minimum. If you were injured on the job, then workers’ compensation could be an option. Seek legal guidance to find out if you qualify.