Construction sites are hazardous places by nature. Accidents are regrettably frequent despite strict safety laws and procedures. While an accident can be caused by a number of reasons, there are four that are most common, which brings the question, what are the four main causes of construction accidents?
The Four Main Causes of Construction Accidents
Construction sites are considerably dangerous areas. Workers must deal with heavy equipment, significant heights, and dangerous electrical items. Even with proper safety procedures, there is still a risk of an accident. There are numerous reasons for these accidents, but there are four that are most common, referred to by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as the Fatal Four. These are:
- Falls
- Struck-by accidents
- Caught in/between accidents
- Electrocutions.
Falls in Construction Sites
The most common cause of death and injury in construction is falls. Employees frequently work at considerable heights, including roofs, ladders, and scaffolding. The risk of falls is greatly increased when fall prevention equipment, like guardrails, safety nets, and harnesses, are not used.
Common causes of falls include inadequate protection, using equipment improperly or not securing them properly, and improper training on safe work practices. Also, improperly using fall protection equipment can result in falls as well.
Struck-by Accidents in Construction Sites
When a worker is struck by a moving object — such as a piece of machinery, a falling tool, or materials — it is known as a struck-by incident. These accidents may cause fatalities or serious injuries. The most frequent causes of struck-by events include falling objects, heavy machinery, and moving cars.
Heavy machinery, which can result in serious injuries if improperly operated or maintained, is a common sight on construction sites. Debris, tools, and other objects that fall from heights can seriously hurt workers below.
Furthermore, automobiles frequently enter and exit construction sites, and if safety precautions are not taken, this could lead to workers being struck by these vehicles. A worker’s chance of being struck by moving machinery or cars can also be increased by poor vision conditions like dim lighting or blocked views.
Electrocutions in Construction Sites
On building sites, electrocution is a serious risk that frequently results from coming into contact with electrical equipment, defective wiring, or power lines. Inadequate safety precautions and ignorance are frequently the cause of electrocution, which can result in fatalities or serious injuries.
Electrocutions are often caused by numerous factors including coming into contact with either overhead or buried power lines, faulty wiring or defective equipment that fail safety standards, ungrounded electrical equipment, and inadequate training in electrical safety.
Caught in/between Incidents in Construction Sites
When a worker becomes trapped, squashed, or squeezed between two or more things, it’s known as a caught-in-between accident. This can happen between moving cars and stationary objects, with machinery, or with collapsing structures. These mishaps frequently result in fatalities and serious injuries, including amputations.
If appropriate lockout/tagout protocols are not followed during maintenance or repairs, workers may become entangled in machinery. Building collapses, scaffold failures, and trench collapses can imprison workers and cause fatalities or severe injuries. Heavy machinery and construction trucks can be very dangerous if the right safety precautions are not taken. Furthermore, workers may become trapped between items due to shifting or falling unsecured materials or equipment.
Injuries From Construction Accidents
Construction accidents often result in a number of severe injuries due to the dangerous nature of the environment. Common injuries include:
- Fractures and broken bones are typically caused by falls from heights or being struck by heavy objects.
- Head injuries, such as concussions and traumatic brain injuries, can also result from falls or being hit by falling debris.
- Burns can be caused by electrocutions or coming into contact with live wires or hot equipment. This can also cause nerve damage and even cardiac arrest.
- Lacerations and puncture wounds are common, often as a result of sharp tools, machinery, or falling objects.
- Amputations can occur when workers get caught in machinery or between heavy objects.
- Respiratory issues can occur from breathing in hazardous substances like asbestos or chemical fumes.
- Musculoskeletal injuries, including sprains and strains, are common due to repetitive motions, heavy lifting, and overexertion. These can not only cause physical pain and disability but also lead to financial burdens such as medical expenses, loss of income, and long-term rehabilitation.
If you have been injured, a Cathedral City construction accident lawyer can help you receive compensation for damages.
FAQs
Q: What Are the Four Main Causes of Accidents in the Construction Industry?
A: The four main causes of accidents in the construction industry are falls, struck-by accidents, caught-in/between hazards, and electrocutions. These four hazards are established by the Occupational and Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). These are referred to as the “Fatal Four” as they are the four main causes of injury and fatalities in construction.
Q: What Is the Largest Cause of Construction Accidents?
A: The largest cause of construction accidents is falls. Falls cause the most fatalities and injuries more than any other injury. Construction at high heights is common in the construction industry. In order to help diminish the possibility of injury, proper safety protocols must be in place, as well as proper training and use of adequate safety equipment.
Q: At What Height Is Fall Protection Required?
A: OSHA requires fall protection for construction workers at heights of 6 feet or more above a lower level. This is to help ensure construction workers’ safety. Fall protection systems must be in place to prevent accidents and ensure worker safety when working at or above this height. Fall protection must also be used when operating dangerous equipment.
Q: How Can Construction Workers Protect Themselves From Falls?
A: Construction workers can protect themselves from falls by utilizing suitable fall protection devices, such as guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems, such as harnesses and lanyards. Adherence to safety measures and appropriate training in fall prevention are also essential. Continuing to review and stay current on any safety equipment and training is crucial in remaining protected from falls.
Contact English, Lloyd & Armenta Today
If you or someone you know has been injured in a construction accident, help is available. English, Lloyd & Armenta can help you in the aftermath. Contact us today to speak with a representative to discuss your options.