Learn more about the risks that construction workers face while on the job.
Unfortunately, the construction industry remains one of the most dangerous industries in the world. While there are steps you can take to minimize your risk (offering safety training, posting warning signs, etc.), it’s impossible to completely eradicate the threat of a workplace injury. Read on to learn some of the facts regarding the risks that construction workers face while on the job.
1) Sadly, an average of two construction workers die each day in the U.S. and thousands more are seriously injured. As 1 in 5 of all workplace fatalities happen in the construction industry, it is the most dangerous field to work in.
2) Most casualties and injuries are caused by four accidents: falls, getting struck by an object, electrocutions, and getting caught between objects.
- Falls: Falls account for about 36.9% of construction fatalities. Common factors leading to a fall include unprotected sides, wall openings, improper scaffold construction, and so on.
- Getting Struck by and Object: Approximately 10.3% of deaths occur after a worker has been struck by an object. This includes being hit by a vehicle, flying or falling objects, and masonry walls.
- Electrocutions: Getting electrocuted accounts for about 8.9% of construction deaths. This can occur when a worker comes into contact with power lines or improperly uses equipment and cords.
- Getting Caught Between Objects: Finally, approximately 2.6% of fatalities occur after a worker gets caught between two objects. This normally occurs when a worker falls due to a lack of a protective system.
3) While everyone in the construction industry is at risk, certain workers are in more danger than others. Construction laborers face the most risk, followed by first-line supervisors, roofers, electricians, and carpenters.
4) The damage sustained after a construction accident can be debilitating. Common injuries include amputated limbs, disfigurement, back and neck injuries, paralysis, blindness, brain injury, and so on.
5) It’s important to remember it’s not just the injured or deceased worker who suffers from a workplace accident. Entire families will suffer as the result of a serious construction injury or death.
These are some of the sombering facts about the risks that construction workers face while on the job. If you want your commercial construction project to go smoothly and safely then turn to the experienced team at Proforma Construction. Serving Pleasanton and the surrounding California area, our highly trained and experienced team is ready to make your commercial construction dreams a reality.
risks that construction workers face while on the job