Did you know that according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 2.6 million nonfatal workplace injuries were reported in the United States in 2021?
These staggering numbers spotlight the importance of safety in the work environment, especially for on-site construction settings, where the risks are considerably higher. Below, we explore some of the most common construction site accidents and the typical reasons behind them.
Falls, Slips, and Trips
Falls, slips, and trips are a significant cause of on-site accidents. Construction workers are the most at risk for fatalities and serious injuries due to falls.
Workers can fall from great heights, such as scaffolding or ladders if proper fall protection systems are not in place. Contributing factors or other potential causes of slips and falls also include:
- Uneven surfaces
- Slippery surfaces
- Improper arrangement of construction materials
- Insufficient protection around elevated areas
- Inadequate safety measures
- Missing or removed guarding
In 2020, falls, slips, and trips accounted for 35.3 percent of workplace deaths within construction and extraction occupations.
Being Struck by Objects
Another widespread accident on construction sites is being struck by falling objects or moving equipment. These incidents can occur when tools, materials, or equipment fall from heights or are improperly secured. Workers can also be struck by moving vehicles or heavy machinery.
Factors or reasons behind these accidents may include:
- Failure to enforce protocols for securing tools and materials
- Lack of clear communication between workers and operators
- Workers’ lack of awareness
- Lack of or failure to use proper protective gear.
Electrocution
Electrocution is a significant hazard on construction sites, mainly when working near power lines or with electrical equipment. Common causes or contributing factors to electrocution accidents include:
- Live or exposed wires
- Inadequate grounding
- Improper use of extension cords
- Faulty electrical equipment
Caught-in-Between Accidents
Caught-in-between accidents occur when a worker becomes caught, squeezed, crushed, or otherwise trapped between two or more objects or machinery. These accidents can happen while operating heavy machinery, working in excavations or trenches, or during material handling.
Common causes of caught-in-between accidents may include:
- Inadequate training
- Failure to follow effective safety procedures
- Improper maintenance of machinery and equipment
- Workers’ lack of awareness
Frequently Asked Questions – Construction Accidents
Q. Are There Any Legal Regulations or Safety Standards Related to Preventing Common Construction Accidents?
A. Yes, numerous legal regulations and safety standards are in place to prevent accidents on construction sites, including OSHA regulations and national and local safety guidelines.
Q. What Should I Do if I Witness or Experience a Construction Accident?
A. If you witness or experience a construction accident, immediately inform your supervisor or site manager. It’s also essential to accurately relay the incident for documentation.
Q. How Can Employers Improve Safety and Minimize the Occurrence of Common Construction Accidents?
A. Employers can facilitate regular safety training, enforce the use of protective gear, and ensure that all equipment is properly maintained to minimize common construction accidents.
Knowing the most common on-site construction accidents and their causes goes a long way toward creating safer construction sites. However, if you or a loved one has been unfortunate enough to experience an accident on a construction site, you may be eligible to receive compensation.
A construction accident lawyer can provide the support and expertise you need — ensuring that justice is served and due compensation is received. Contact the experienced construction accident attorneys from Gallon Law today for a consultation.
Kevin Boissoneault, is the President and Managing Partner of GT&B. He began his career at GT&B in 1992 and has built the Personal Injury section into one of the strongest and most successful firms in the region. His hard work and dedication as a compelling trial attorney and litigator has won many verdicts and settlements for his clients and their families. Kevin’s commitment to protecting those who have been injured through accident or negligence has brought justice for thousands of clients.