The very nature of construction work makes some people avoid the profession all together. And it’s easy to forget the skill and know-how that goes into constructing the things we all use everyday: from our homes to the buildings we work in.
As a construction worker, you know the inherent dangers on any given site, so workplace safety is an all-important aspect of every working minute. And while many foremen will train construction staff on how to best be safe, it’s always good to get reminders. This way you stay safe, along with your co-workers. If you do find yourself in a position where you’ve been hurt while on a construction job, do reach out to us and get a consultation, this way we can help you navigate the sea of paperwork that comes with a workers’ compensation case.
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) law requires employers to provide a work place that is safe and free from hazards. And according to OSHA:
- Construction-related accidents can account for 100 or more deaths each year
- Millions of construction workers are injured and result in having lost work days
- Accidents on construction sites can account for roughly $13 billion in workers’ compensation costs each year
There are basically 4 main categories of construction-related deaths:
- Being struck by an object
- Getting stuck in between objects
- Electrical injuries and electrocution
- Serious falls
In the majority of these cases, accidents are preventable. And while many sites are very safe, their track record comes from good safety training, proactive precautions, and a lot of common sense on the management team and each individual worker.
There’s a fine line between a near miss, an injury, and a fatality. And although laws and regulations are in place, the obligation of training and enforcing safety training falls on construction management.
How can you, as a construction worker, better protect yourself?
First, take full advantage of all training programs provided by the employer. Your union may have training sessions that you can participate in as well. And, follow these 6 tips:
- Stay current with all safety rules
- Know your equipment well and be aware of other equipment around you
- Wear protective gear
- Take your time on your job
- Observe the proper barriers and secure all loads immediately
- Be sure to report any unsafe conditions as soon as possible
If you’ve been hurt on the job, please call our office for a consultation. Workers’ compensations and SSDI cases are all we do. Not sure if you qualify? Find out.
