Data based on U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics survey of occupational injuries and illnesses. This data is from the 2018 U.S. survey.
Falls
The number one cause of construction fatalities is falls. Working at heights, especially on uneven surfaces can lead to serious injuries if the proper fall protection system isn’t in place. Employees are at risk when they are working at a height of four feet or more. Common factors include misuse of ladders, unprotected sides, floor holes, and improper scaffolding. Having the proper PPE, especially the proper head protection, could potentially be the difference between life and death.
Electrocution
Many worksites rely on electric generators to power their tools, which when exposed to moisture, can increase the chances of being injured due to electrocution. An electrical hazard can expose workers to not only electrocutions but also, shock, arc flash/blast, fire, and explosions. Working near overhead power lines and cables can also provide increased risk of injury. To better protect against electric hazards, de-energize equipment before performing maintenance and follow the proper lockout/tagout procedures.
Caught-in/Between
If machinery is not properly guarded or locked-out when being repaired, workers can be accidentally crushed or pulled in between rotating parts, resulting in severe injury, or even death. Employees should also be on the look-out for trench cave-ins during excavations projects and take extra precautions when working in confined spaces.
Struck by Object
Whether it’s being hit by falling tools, debris or moving machinery, workers must be on high alert at all times. Struck-by hazards are categorized as struck by flying object, struck by falling object, struck by swinging object, or struck by rolling object. When choosing the appropriate PPE, it’s important to include equipment that will protect an employee’s eyes, face, and head.
When working at heights, even the smallest of tools can become deadly weapons plummeting to the jobsite below. By employing tethers for your tools, you can prevent them from falling or limit the fall if the tool is dropped. This can save more than just lives, but also money from potential equipment damage. For more information on dropped object prevention check out our page.
While these hazards are reported the most frequently, construction workers are also exposed to many other dangers such as hearing loss, building collapses, extreme weather conditions, hand arm vibration syndrome, and toxic dust. Providing the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) isn’t enough. Employers must train their employees on proper use as well as monitor them to ensure 100% compliance.
Regulations
Regulations like the ones listed below, equipment improvements, and the proper use of PPE have resulted in the decline of injuries and fatalities over the years. But even one injury is too many. The safety experts at ORR can help you navigate these regulations to ensure your workers get home safely.
OHSA 1926.501 - Fall Protection. This regulation addresses when fall protection equipment is required including walking/working surfaces, unprotected sides and edges, leading edges, hoist areas, holes, roofing, etc.
OHSA 1926.759 - Falling object protection. This regulation covers securing loose items aloft and protection from falling objects other than materials being hoisted.
OSHA 1926.100 - Head Protection. This regulation covers when head protection must be worn, that employers must provide head protection and the equipment standard for the head protection that is worn.
