Every job has its risks, but construction workers face some of the greatest dangers in the industry. According to the International Labor Organization, construction workers are 3 to 4 times more likely to sustain injuries or die on the job site than employees in other sectors.
The high number of injuries and deaths among workers in the construction sector is primarily due to the failure to take proper precautions. This article will provide several essential facts every construction worker should know.
Heights Pose the Highest Risk to Construction Workers
Falls from heights are among the leading causes of accidents in the construction industry, accounting for about one-third of construction-related fatalities. Most fall incidents are caused by unsafe working conditions, such as improperly secured scaffolding or a lack of workers’ personal protective equipment (PPE).
To reduce the chances of fall-related accidents on construction sites, employers should implement a strict safety policy and train workers to follow it. In addition, workers should inspect all ladders and scaffolds before use to ensure they are in good condition.
If you work at a construction site, you must always be on the lookout for possible height-related hazards and notify your employer immediately. And if an employer wants you to work at a height that is not correctly secured, do not hesitate to speak up.
Many Construction Accidents Go Unreported
While we can only talk about statistics of the construction accidents that were reported, the data does not reveal everything about the story. The truth is that more than 25% of accidents that occur on construction sites go unreported.
The are many reasons why workers are reluctant to report injuries. Top on the list is fear of being fired or disciplined if they file a workers’ compensation claim, while others do not just want to get caught in the middle of the complicated workers’ compensation process.
Nevertheless, employees must report workplace injuries, regardless of their seriousness. This is the only way to push your employer to take the necessary measures to prevent similar accidents from happening in the future.
Besides safeguarding your safety, reporting an accident will also enable you to get proper medication, which can help speed up your recovery and alleviate the pain caused by your injuries.
“When you report your accident as soon as it happens, you will have better chances of getting the compensation you need to fund your recovery,” says construction accident lawyer James Onder.
Construction Companies Could Save a Lot if They Implemented Safety Measures
The primary goal of setting up any company is to minimize costs and maximize profits. Construction companies can achieve this by implementing safety measures to protect their employees from work-related accidents.
Employers should train their workers on basic safety procedures, including the importance of using personal protective equipment (PPE). That way, companies can save up to $6 down the line for every dollar they spend on safety training, According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA).
When safety becomes the top priority, the construction industry will have done the best it can to ensure that every employee returns home safely each day. Every organization has the power to make that happen.
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