The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has labeled the four most common construction accidents the “fatal four.” If these causes of injury were eliminated, over 500 American workers’ lives could be saved every year. Once you know these causes of these accidents, you can help prevent them and keep your workplace safer.
Here are the four most common types of construction accidents.
- Falls account for nearly 40 percent of construction site deaths. Secure scaffolding, slide prevention gear and proper use of ladders could help prevent deaths and injury from falls on construction sites.
- Electrocution accounts for nearly 12 percent of construction work site accidents each year. It’s not just workers who deal with power lines who are at risk of electrocution. Improper use of extension cords can put workers at risk, as well as not wearing proper protection when working near power circuits.
- Struck by object. Falling objects, cranes and unstable walls cause over 8 percent of construction deaths each year. When tools being used above work sites are not properly secured, they can cause death an injury on the job site.
- Caught in or between. Workers can get caught between large vehicles, concrete or walls when a worksite is not being properly managed.
All of these deaths and injuries are preventable when proper safety precautions are taken and a job site is managed well.
At Bouchillon, Crossan & Colburn, L.C., our attorneys have more than 40 years dedicated to giving clients the attention, advice, support and empowerment they need to effectively meet their goals. We are committed to the principle that all persons shall have equal justice under the law. If you or a loved one has been injured and is seeking a qualified personal injury attorney, contact our Huntington, West Virginia office to speak with an attorney about your case, or call 304-521-4636.