Safety is a top priority for anyone in the construction industry, and if it’s not it should be. Even the most careful of construction workers can have an accident if working conditions aren’t optimal. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) reported in 2018, there were 4,779 worker fatalities and 21.1% of those fatalities were in the construction industry. Discounting highway collisions, falls were the most common cause of death. Four categories of construction accidents are responsible for more than have of construction worker deaths.
According to data from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), 20% of worker deaths in 2018 were in the construction industry. Of these, the “Fatal Four” were responsible for over 58% of fatalities, and were preventable with the proper precautions.
Caught In/Between (6%) – When a person is caught between two objects or compressed, rolled over, or crushed. To prevent these injuries, keep fingers and other body parts out of pinch points, be cognitive of your surroundings, don’t be in a rush.
Electrocution (9%) – When a person is exposed to a lethal amount of electrical energy, such as contact with power lines. Follow proper lock-out-tag-out procedures and do not work in water.
Struck by an Object (11%) – This categorization includes a person being struck or hit by a flying, swinging, rolling, or a falling object. To avoid being struck by an object do not cross into danger (red) or hazard (yellow) zones and always wear a protective helmet when on a construction site.
Falls (34%) – When a worker loses balance and falls from something such as a roof, scaffold, or ladder. Wearing proper PPE, such as safety harnesses, using 3-point contact when on a ladder, and staying away from edges can greatly reduce the chances of experiencing a serious fall.
If you or a loved or injured in a construction accident in Louisville, KY, Kevin Crooks is available to hear your story and discuss your legal option during a free consultation. While you focus on your recovery, we are prepared to focus on fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Source: https://www.osha.gov/data/commonstats
