Few professions are as rewarding as construction. Those who work in this industry get the gratification of seeing a final product they have built, remodeled or repaired. Although fulfilling, the construction industry is also dangerous. Part of the frustration with these dangers is the fact that the most serious risk is also preventable.
What is the most serious risk at a construction site?
Falls remain a leading cause of fatalities in construction. In an effort to encourage safer worksites, the United States Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) conducts an annual event to raise awareness. The event, the National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction, occurs in May and aims to drive change by encouraging fall prevention training and hazard recognition exercises.
This event is just one of many the agency uses to help address this serious issue.
Although OSHA is taking steps to help reduce the risk of falls, this hazard remains a serious issue for construction workers throughout the country.
What are common causes of fall injuries at construction sites?
The four most common causes of falls at construction sites include:
- Openings and holes. A hole in the floor or opening in a wall are common at construction sites. Guardrails, safety nets and personal fall arrest systems help to reduce the risk of a fall. This is especially important when the opening leads to a fall of 6 feet or more to the lower level.
- Improper scaffolding. Scaffolds are necessary to reach areas of a construction site. When put together and used according to manufacturer instructions, along with proper fall protection, they are relatively safe. When these precautions are not in place the workers are put at unnecessary risk.
- Unguarded rebars. Even a relatively small fall onto an unguarded rebar can result in serious injury. Reduce risk by capping or bending rebar.
- Misuse of ladders. Portable ladders are a convenient way to get to hard to reach areas. Make sure it is stable and secure before use. An unstable ladder can slip and result in serious injury.
Precautions for each of these risks can significantly reduce the potential for a fall injury at a construction site.
What legal remedies are available to workers who are injured in fall while working a construction site?
Those who are injured while on-the-job often qualify for workers’ compensation. This system provides funds to help cover the costs associated with the fall which can include medical expenses and lost wages. Workers must report the injury and complete paperwork to receive benefits. The process can be complex and the provider may deny the claim. If denied, it is possible to appeal and continue to demand entitled benefits.
Although OSHA is working to increase the safety at construction sites and reduce the risk of dangerous falls, accidents continue to happen. When those accidents occur during the course of completing one’s work, construction workers may have the right to benefits through workers’ compensation.