California is in the midst of a building boom, with real estate and commercial developments demanding the construction industry to keep up the pace. Along with the increase in productivity comes the higher likelihood of workers facing injuries.
Construction workers face a high-risk environment daily. Even so, most injuries are preventable with diligence and adequate safety precautions. Take a look at some of the most common incidents that cause worker injuries.
What are the top causes of injuries?
Workers at construction sites must navigate obstacles to remain safe. However, some job elements are unavoidable and increase the odds of an on-the-job injury.
Falls
Fall hazards abound on construction sites with elements that require workers to climb ladders and scaffolding. The bigger the building, the higher a worker has to ascend. Safety equipment, such as harnesses, can help workers remain tethered when working at heights. Fencing areas around a ladder or scaffolding to keep others from accidentally bumping into it is also critical to worker safety.
Struck-by incidents
Even a worker on the ground may become injured if hit or struck by equipment. With multiple blind spots, heavy equipment strikes rank high on the top causes of worker injuries. Wearing protective measures, such as bright vests and hard hats, may help maintain visibility; however, it is often up to the worker to remain aware of equipment to avoid getting hit or caught.
Electricity
Electricity provides power to tools and lights around a site. It also proves a hazard if not attended to properly. Electrocution is one of the most dangerous causes of injuries because it may prove fatal. Workers need to watch out for exposed wiring and standing water before using power tools.
Worker safety on a construction site is difficult but not impossible. Maintaining safe practices and a watchful eye may aid in staying injury-free in a risky profession.
Lowering your risk of injury on a construction site
Working in the construction industry requires significant stamina and physical ableness. You will experience a harsher work environment than many other professionals do on a daily basis.
Knowing some ways to minimize your injury risk can help you stay safer and work more productively.
Alertness
Many construction jobs will involve heights, heavy machinery and lots of noise that might interfere with communication. You can prevent a fair amount of danger when you stay alert and sober. Never go to work under the influence of alcohol or drugs that make you drowsy. Minimize distractions and communicate with the people around you.
Compliance
Most construction companies have safety protocols for employees. Participate in safety training. Follow guidelines for personal protective equipment. Wear a helmet, sturdy boots, eye protection and a harness, as needed. Follow tag-out procedures and promptly report any safety concerns you notice.
Education
The more familiar you are with the risks of your job, the better equipped you will be to protect yourself. According to U.S. News, construction jobs require heavy lifting, agility and exposure to hazardous materials. You could also need to operate heavy machinery in confined spaces or precarious positions.
What safety gear should you have on a construction job?
Working in the construction industry puts you at a higher risk of injury than other careers. Depending on your responsibilities, you may work at heights, around heavy equipment and near environmental hazards.
Prior to any job, your employer should provide adequate safety training. Your vigilance in wearing proper safety gear can also aid in your protection.
Clothing
When working around heavy equipment or items that protrude from the ground or other surfaces, your clothing should never fall loosely around your body. Abrasive-resistant clothing that fits your body appropriately can minimize the chances of extra material getting caught, resulting in crushing injuries and other serious accidents.
Your clothing should allow you to move freely and provide full coverage to your extremities. Additionally, a reflective vest can enhance your visibility to those around you. According to the Commercial Construction & Renovation Magazine, you may also need a safety harness to wear if your job requires you to work at height.
Other PPE
Personal protective equipment may include eyewear or breathing apparatuses that protect your face from dangerous particles. If you work around loud machinery, such as a jackhammer, you will want hearing protection. A well-fitted pair of steel-toe work boots and a well-fitted helmet can provide significant protection from falling objects. You may also want to wear gloves.
If you have concerns about a lack of PPE, you may reach out to your employer to request support in getting the items you need. If you suffered an injury on a construction site, you may have eligibility to receive compensation if your employer acted negligently in providing the necessary gear for your safety.
Always work cautiously and thoroughly to prevent unnecessary danger. If you have concerns about the methods your employer uses to protect you, you may choose to file a complaint. Construction injuries can have life-altering consequences. You deserve to work in an environment that prioritizes safety and gives you ample resources to protect yourself from danger. In extreme circumstances where you suffer an injury, you may consider taking legal action.