7 Grievous Outcomes of Unintentional Violation of Safety Rules in a Construction Site
The construction workforce has one of the highest injury and fatality rates in any industry. Laborers are often rushing to get tasks finished on time. Sometimes they take shortcuts or use riskier methods. The Occupational Safety and Health Act has specific rules regarding how to navigate a construction site and avoid accidents. These safety rules are there for everyone’s protection. Unintentional violations can result in severe injury or fatality. Here are the seven most common accidents that occur on construction sites.
1. Falls from High Heights
Falls may occur when employees climb ladders, roofs, scaffolds, or other high structures. Scaffolds have been known to collapse and fall apart. Platforms can also shake at unpredictable times. The OSHA has strict rules about how to handle heights. If a person is going up or down the ladder, it must be steady and secure. Safety equipment such as fall protection gear and harnesses must also be used.
2. Accidents Involving Machinery and Vehicles
Construction sites use heavy machinery, cranes, and other vehicles that travel at high speeds. Vehicle accidents can happen if drivers are inattentive or reckless. They can occur if trucks crash into other vehicles or any other object. Drivers should not leave their vehicles unattended with the ignition on. Insurance claims for accidents involving heavy vehicles are very complex. A lawyer can help you file a case against the responsible party. You need an attorney with specific experience in this field to win construction site accident claims.
3. Chemical Injuries
Construction sites use a variety of chemicals for different purposes. These chemicals can be dangerous. Employees may be exposed through inhalation or skin contact. The construction site must warn workers about chemical hazards. Any hazardous chemicals must be stored in a safe place. They should be labeled clearly. If a chemical is spilled, it must be cleaned up properly. Employees who are exposed to the substances must receive immediate medical attention.
4. Electrocution
Electrical injuries are not common, but they are still possible. Accidental contact with live wires or shock by touching a high-voltage wire can result in severe injury or death. Employees should be trained to handle electrical equipment. The construction site must have all the electrical cables inside conduit pipes running underground or otherwise protected from weather and accidental contact.
5. Slips and Falls
Trip hazards, such as loose concrete slabs, protruding bricks, and other objects, may cause accidents. Wet floors can also result in a fall. Employees must look out for these hazards. The path must be clear of anything that can cause a slip or trip. If the site does not have anti-slip floor surfaces, use appropriate footgear.
6. Fires and Explosions
Fuel storage leaks and electrical problems may cause a fire or explosion. Combustible materials, such as stored chemicals or paper, can also lead to a blaze. Employees must keep a fire extinguisher on hand. Electrical fires must be handled with caution. If a fire breaks out, evacuate the site and call the fire department. Unplug equipment, shut off the electricity and call emergency services. Nobody should enter a burning building or stay around to watch what happens.
7. Getting Caught in Between Equipment
Machinery on a construction site can be dangerous. Injuries can happen when workers are caught between moving equipment or heavy objects. Equipment can move aggressively even if it is not damaged or malfunctioning. It’s hard to stop the momentum of heavy machinery once it’s started. Employers must make sure that the machines are well-maintained by qualified personnel. Stay alert and watch out for moving equipment.
Every day construction workers risk their lives to build a better future. Unfortunately, these risks can result in grisly injury or death. A personal injury lawyer can help workers file a claim for injuries sustained on the job. Consult an expert lawyer to discuss your options.