Construction accidents can occur for a variety of reasons. The best way to prevent these accidents from occurring in the first place is by having preventative measures in place. Continue reading to learn about some of the most commonly seen accidents on construction sites and what you can do to prevent them.
Most Common Construction Accidents
Construction safety is essential. Here are some of the most common construction site accidents, followed by things you can do to prevent them.
Falls
Falls at construction sites can occur from slips, trips, and heights. The leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry comes from falls from heights. This is due to the floor being so high, with very minimal areas for support.
Many other falls occur due to improper equipment mounting or dismounting, improper ladder use, uneven surfaces, or inadequate fall protection equipment.
The best way to prevent falls is to:
- Wear personal safety equipment
- Cover floor openings
- Install protection around the area you are working
- Use ladders with caution
Being Hit by an Object
Construction workers can easily be struck or hit by falling debris, machines, objects, or equipment. The majority of these injuries can be prevented by wearing the proper safety equipment, including safety glasses, hard hats, and more. Sometimes this isn’t always enough to protect construction workers.
It is important that workers are aware of their surroundings at all times. They should also wear clothing that is visible when working near vehicles and other equipment.
Stuck in Between an Object
Sometimes, workers can become caught or stuck in between an object. This may include being trapped against a wall, or a limb being stuck in between machinery.
These accidents can be easily prevented by wearing the appropriate protection when around excavation and trenches. Additionally, excavation should always be protected by benching, or sloping. Workers should never put their limbs or hands near moving equipment.
Electrocutions
Electrocution injuries are also common on construction sites. Sometimes these accidents can even result in extreme injuries such as muscular contractions, nerve damage, or cardiac arrest. Fatalities have been reported as well in electrocution accidents.
These types of accidents occur when workers are not operating or installing equipment safely. It may also occur when working in hazardous conditions.
Final Word
The best way to prevent any type of construction accident is by ensuring that the entire team is aware of the best practices to prevent them. These accidents can easily be avoided by following the guidelines set by OSHA.
Furthermore, safety consultants can come to your construction sites and assist in finding any discrepancies in your training. They can also help you locate hazards that jeopardize your and your team’s safety. Finally, they can verify that your construction site is, in fact, following OSHA guidelines.