Construction

Few industries can say they make a lasting impact on their community like the construction industry. Starting from scratch, construction workers build the businesses we work in and the houses we come home to each night. However, shaping the world doesn’t come without its share of risks. In 2016, OSHA reported 5,190 worker fatalities on construction sites alone. That’s more than 14 deaths occurring on worksites each day. More than two-thirds of these deaths are attributed to four main hazards, commonly known as “The Fatal Four.”

The Fatal Four include:

Falls

The number one cause of construction fatalities. Working at height, 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 4 ft. or more. Common factors include misuse of ladders, unprotected sides, floor holes, and improper scaffolding.

Struck by Object

Whether it’s being hit by falling tools, debris or moving machinery, workers have to 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.

Electrocutions

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 accidentally be 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.

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 have to train their employees on proper use as well as monitor them to ensure 100% compliance. 

When working at height, even the smallest of tools can become deadly weapons plummeting to the jobsite below. By employing tool tethers for your tools, you can prevent tools 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.

Click here to learn more about the different types of tool tethering solutions available for your worksite.