Construction work can be hard and worksite accidents can be dangerous. In fact, it is considered to be one of the most dangerous industries in which to work. Out of every 5,000 private-industry worker deaths, 20 percent come from construction jobs. That’s one out of every five worker fatalities related to construction.
Common construction work accidents
The following are some of the most common types of accidents that occur on construction sites.
- Falls: Falls are the most common type of accident on a construction site because so many of the required jobs have to be performed from high places. They account for almost 35% of all construction site accidents. Slips and falls can occur from rooftops, ladders, scaffolds, cranes, and other construction worksite locations.
- Falling objects: The nature of construction work requires a lot of tools, building materials, and safety equipment. These objects can fall from anywhere, including heavy equipment like cranes, or man lifts. Injuries caused by debris or heavy equipment can be life-threatening.
- Electrocution, Explosions and Burns: Given the nature of the job, exposed wires, downed power lines, and unfinished electrical systems are frequently present at a lot of construction sites. They can also spark explosions or fires. Terrible injury or death by electrocution and burns can occur. By far, the most dangerous electrical work is that done by power-line installers.
- Motor vehicle accidents: Even though road construction sites put up signage, flags, spotters and barricades, drivers who are going too fast or are distracted all too often hit road crew personnel.
- Machinery accidents: Large and potentially dangerous machinery, such as cranes, jackhammers, bulldozers, backhoes, dump trucks and excavators can lead to serious accidents or construction accident deaths, if not properly operated and maintained by trained personnel. Even power tools, like nail guns and drills, can cause substantial injury.
- Ground or trench collapses: Many construction jobs require trenches and excavations. This can lead to the ground and surrounding areas to become unstable and collapse on workers on and around the work site.
- Heat Stroke and Overexertion: Construction crews work in all kinds of weather, including heat and humidity. Common occurrences from the elements include strokes, fainting and dehydration.
Most construction companies in the industry have safety programs and adhere strictly to OSHA regulations. However, even in the best companies accidents can occur. If you’re a construction worker who has been injured on the worksite, or you lost a loved one in a construction accident, please give us a call at 1-800-LAW-1333. As experienced New York construction site accident lawyers, we can help you understand all of your options.
The content of this blog was prepared by Alexander & Associates Attorneys at Law for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to solicit business or provide legal advice. Laws differ by jurisdiction, and the information in this blog may not apply to you. You should seek the assistance of an attorney licensed to practice in your state before taking any action. Using this blog site does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Alexander & Associates Attorneys at Law. Client relationships can only be created by written contract.
