Common Construction Accidents and Ways to Prevent Them

Construction workers have one of the most dangerous jobs. When compared to other dangerous work environments, construction sites have the highest rate of injuries. Workers are constantly in danger of falling from heights, getting hurt by falling debris, suffering from electrocution, etc. However, accidents and injuries can be avoided if you stay alert and follow some safety guidelines.

Here are some common construction accidents, along with some useful tips on how to avoid them:

Fall: A fall is one of the most common accidents that take place at a construction site. Since many types of construction work are carried out at a considerable height, accidents happen often. A fall can result in broken bones, concussion and sometimes even death. To avoid a fall, workers must use sturdy and secured scaffolding to elevate a platform. Always install a guardrail system, and make sure you use a secure safety net or a personal fall arrest system to minimize injuries, should a fall occur.

Electrocution: Exposed electrical wiring on a job site poses a significant risk to workers working around them. Hundreds of construction workers die each year because of electrocution. To reduce the risk of electrocution, the exposed wires must be labelled clearly and correctly. The wires must also be kept out of high traffic areas to minimize the risk of electrocution.

Accident from falling objects: Falling objects such as tools, materials and debris pose a serious threat to workers. They can result in some serious injuries like concussion, broken bones and even traumatic brain injury. To prevent injuries from falling debris, make sure to wear hard hats at all times.

Heavy machinery accident: Heavy machinery is an important component of a construction industry. It is vital for the completion of many construction jobs. However, heavy machinery can lead to serious injuries like broken or fractured limbs, disfigurement, amputation, etc. To avoid an accident, a worker must be properly trained.

Slip and trip: A construction site is a busy place where numerous materials and substances are being moved around, resulting in untidy and uneven surroundings. Oil and grease spillages can cause some serious injuries, especially when it rains. To avoid slip and trip injuries at a construction site, the walkway and work area should be kept clear of obstructions at all times. Any slippery surface should also be reported immediately to the manager, so that the hazard is dealt with at the earliest.