Construction sites have a long list of potential dangers: from falls from heights to electrocution from live wires. Construction work is also known as one of the most dangerous occupations with an average fatality rate that’s higher than any other type of work in America. This is because construction has a lot more variables that can contribute to an accident or injury, such as working under live power lines without proper protections or using improper equipment like scaffolding which won’t support your weight properly if it’s not built properly.
What are the most common types of construction injuries
Construction workers suffer from a lot of muscle- and joint-related injuries such as sprains, strains, and tears. These types of injuries commonly occur when the worker doesn’t use proper body mechanics, or he isn’t wearing the right protective gear.
If you work on a construction site, you could also be at risk for any of the following injuries:
Electric shock
If you work with live power lines, you run the risk of getting electrocuted. Always assume that any electrical line is live, and follow all OSHA regulations when working with electricity.
Explosion or collapse
You can get injured if there’s an explosion on your construction site, or if your wall collapses. Unreinforced wall panels are one of the main causes of a wall collapse in buildings. To avoid this type of injury, always use wall panels that are designed to sustain high-impact forces.
Fall from height
This is one of the most common types of construction injuries because there are a lot of potential hazards when you’re working on a height. Make sure that your scaffolding is properly built and all the necessary safety precautions are taken before you work on a height. You should also make sure that your equipment meets all OSHA standards.
How can you prevent these injuries from happening
To minimize your risk for injury on the job, you should always use the right protective equipment and follow all safety precautions mandated by OSHA. Some construction professionals recommend that you invest in wall paneling to minimize wall collapse risk. It’s possible to build walls out of several types of materials, but the safest are engineered wall panels. These are designed with impact resistance, so they can withstand heavy force without suffering damage.
What’s more, you should inspect your equipment regularly. Look for any signs of wear and tear, make sure all safety features are still intact and test the scaffolding to make sure it can support your weight before you climb on top of it. You should also make sure that everyone working with you is wearing the right protective gear, like gloves, hard hats, and safety goggles.
Construction workers spend a lot of time on their feet, which can lead to an increased risk for foot pain and other types of injuries as well as slips, trips, and falls. To avoid these types of accidents from happening on your construction site, invest in high-quality safety shoes and insoles so you can work comfortably all day.
What should you do if you suffer an injury on the job
If you’re hurt during your construction shift, there are guidelines you should follow to get the help you need. First of all, you should report the incident to your supervisor or foreman. Seek immediate medical assistance if someone else is injured with you, or if there’s an accident that causes major damage to equipment or property. Lastly, you should also call your insurance carrier to know if they can help cover any medical and property damage-related expenses.
What are your rights as a construction worker injured on the job
If you suffer an injury on the job, make sure to follow all medical guidelines and inform your employer as soon as possible. In some cases, employees can file a workman’s compensation claim if they’re hurt at work. This means that your employer will provide coverage for lost wages and other applicable expenses, because of a work-related injury. You can also file a personal injury lawsuit if your injuries aren’t covered by workman’s comp. The best way to prepare for this is to get in touch with an attorney who can help you determine what the next steps are, and whether you have a strong enough case to win compensation.
Avoiding injury
Even if you do everything as instructed by your supervisor, there’s still a chance that you could suffer from a work-related injury or equipment failure. If this happens on a construction site, you should file a workers’ compensation claim so you can receive necessary medical treatment.