Construction Accidents

According to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) 1 in 10 workers is likely to be injured in a year. Not many of these workers are union members. Some of them do not have the proper paper work to work in the country. This makes them vulnerable to being neglected by their employers. Their basic rights like safety rights and fair wages are easily compromised.

Here are some of the basic safety rights every construction worker and employer should know about and follow:

Scaffolding

Scaffolds must be strong and sound and accessed by using ladders and stairwells.They should be erected, moved or dismantled by competent persons only, and must be inspected frequently.

Fall Protection

Control line systems should be installed to protect workers near the edges of floors and roofs. Floor holes must be covered and safety nets and body harnesses must be used. Aerial lifts or elevated platforms should be used to provide safer elevated working surfaces.

Cranes

It should be ensured that the load does not exceed a crane's rated capacity. The load should be raised a few inches to verify the balance and effectiveness of the brake system. Loads should not be moved over the workers.

Forklifts

All operators must be trained and certified to operate the forklift safely. The weight and speed of operating a forklift should not exceed recommended limits. Operators should wear seatbelts at all times.

Head Protection

Workers should wear hardhats in places where there is a possibility of objects falling from above, or of bumps to their heads from fixed objects, or of accidental head contact with electrical hazards.

Despite various safety measures in place, accidents still happen. Because of the nature of the job, which involves heavy machinery, electrical equipment, height and many more factors, accidents are inevitable. For this reason, it is essential that the victim is well compensated for all losses.