Construction workers should be aware of the risks of injuries and the methods of protecting themselves from injury. These hazards include slips and falls, entrapment, contact with objects or equipment, and electrocution.
Slips, trips, and falls
Construction workers are at a higher risk of slipping and falling accidents. A fall can cause serious injuries such as spinal cord damage and muscular skeletal disorders. However, a slip can also result in a minor injury such as a bruised shin or knee strain.
Taking the time to prevent slips and trips can have a significant impact on workplace safety. Slips can be prevented by following a few simple guidelines.
Also read: What is the number one cause of injuries for construction workers?
The first rule is to keep your work area clean. Keep walkways clear of hazards. Also, make sure to wear appropriate footwear. Wear shoes with good traction.
Proper lighting is another way to prevent slips. Workplaces should be well-lit at all times.
Entrapment
Entrapment injuries are injuries caused by being caught between two or more objects. The dangers of entrapment are numerous, and the injuries can be very serious. For example, a worker can be crushed between a piece of equipment and the ground. Another entrapment scenario is a child getting stuck in a drain.
Children are the victims of entrapment accidents more often than adults. These incidents can occur on playgrounds, pools, and playground equipment. They are also very common on construction sites.
Some examples of entrapment hazards include confined spaces, defective household products, and toys. It is important to address these hazards in order to ensure a safe workplace.
Heavy machinery
Heavy machinery is one of the most dangerous parts of a construction site. In fact, the National Safety Council reports that about one-third of all fatal construction accidents involve heavy equipment.
Many of these incidents can be prevented if employers follow the proper safety measures and regulations. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has outlined guidelines that can help make your workplace safer.
These include regular inspections of equipment, and providing workers with training to keep them safe. A faulty machine can cause an accident, and an employer has a responsibility to provide a safe work environment.
Some common construction machines include bulldozers, welders, grinders, and punch presses. All these items can cause injuries if used improperly.
Electrocution
Electrocutions are among the most deadly injuries for construction workers. A simple brush against a bare wire on a power tool can cause severe muscular contractions and even death.
An electrical shock can cause damage to the brain, heart and respiratory system. It can also cause burns and disfigurement. The severity of the injury depends on the type of electrical current, the length of exposure and the resistance of the body.
There are two main ways in which a worker can become electrocuted. First, by coming into contact with a live power line. Secondly, by touching electrical equipment.
These types of injuries can vary from mild to severe. Serious burns can lead to disfigurement and other medical problems. In addition, they can damage many layers of the skin, tissues and organs.
Caught-in and caught-between accidents
Caught-in and caught-between accidents for construction workers are some of the most dangerous types of worksite injuries. These incidents can cause catastrophic injuries and even death.
These types of accidents can be caused by collapsing structures or equipment, unstable walls, or unguarded machinery. When these happen, a worker may be trapped under the equipment and become crushed, pinned, or strangled.
In addition, a worker can be permanently disfigured or disabled. Workers’ Compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and the cost of prostheses. If you have been injured in a construction accident, you should seek legal advice. A lawyer can help you file a workers’ compensation claim to receive benefits for your losses.
Contact with an object or equipment
Contact with an object or equipment can be one of the most dangerous hazards in a construction workplace. It can result in fatalities and severe injuries, and should be avoided. There are many safety measures that can help reduce the frequency of these incidents.
In addition to falling objects, construction workers are also at risk of being struck by equipment or machinery. Struck-by hazards can include falls, ejection of equipment, and collapsing material. These hazards can lead to serious injuries that can interfere with your ability to work.
The most common type of construction injury is a fall. This is caused by a worker slipping or tripping while working at heights. To prevent this from occurring, OSHA recommends using tethers, lanyards, and other safety devices.
