Construction Accidents

Construction workers are part of the backbone of the country. They build the offices, homes and shopping centers that we all depend on, but they pay a hefty cost to bring us convenience. According to The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), one in every ten construction workers is injured each year, 71% higher than any other industry.

Construction Fatalities: “The Fatal Four”

According to OSHA, most construction fatalities fall into four categories:

Falls – 33.5%
Scaffolding is a cause for concern, and faulty scaffolding is responsible for around 50 fatalities each year. OSHA regulations clearly define proper scaffolding techniques. Scaffolding must be rigid and be able to sufficiently carry four times the maximum intended load. Guardrails must be in place and scaffolding must be inspected on regular intervals.

Struck by an object – 11.1%
Falling objects account for this category. Most accidents occur when objects fall while being hoisted to a higher elevation, striking workers on the ground.

Electrocutions – 8.5%
Almost 60% of electrocutions are caused by direct contact with electricity.

Caught in or in between an object – 5.5%
Trench collapses result in dozens of fatalities each year. Most of these accidents occur due to improper installation of protection systems or heavy equipment rolling into trenches.

Construction accidents bring so much pain and suffering, not only to the workers themselves, but to their families as well. Companies can mitigate the dangers by following OSHA guidelines, providing proper training and ensuring that all equipment is regularly inspected for safety. Maintaining a clean worksite, enforcing the use of personal protective gear and conducting regular safety meetings with the crew can also lessen construction accidents.

If you are a construction worker and have been injured, or if your family member has died as a result of a construction accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Conley Griggs Partin LLP has years of experience in construction accident claims. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.