According to the United States Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there are 4 main construction accidents that result in injuries or death. These include falls, electrocutions, being struck by an object, and being caught in-between machinery or equipment. In order to increase construction workers’ safety and prevent these types of accidents, OSHA lays out guidelines that employers must follow.
Specifically, employers must provide adequate safety training and equipment to help workers avoid an accident. They must also provide a reasonably safe working environment and fix any unsafe conditions that put workers at risk. If they act negligently and a worker is injured, they may be held liable in court.
Safety Tips for Construction Workers
It is estimated that one in four workplace fatalities in 2016 occurred at construction sites. As a construction worker, it is important to always be aware of your surroundings and to wear a hard hat. Here are some safety tips you can use to avoid these life-threatening accidents.
Falls. Falling from a height is a leading cause of death. You should use the safety equipment provided by your employer and exercise caution when walking on scaffolding. Even if you are only a few feet above the ground, a fall could lead to broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and other serious injuries. Thus, you should follow safety protocols and protect yourself from a fall. Furthermore, you should pay attention where you are walking to avoid tripping over electrical cords or objects in the pathway.
Electrocution. Construction sites often have exposed wiring and other hazardous electrical conditions. This puts you at risk for being shocked or electrocuted. While minor shocks can be treated as burn injuries, more serious ones can be fatal. That is why it is important to always pay attention to any exposed wiring or electrical components, and to use insulated protective gear when working with electrical systems.
Being struck by an object. Under OSHA’s definition, this involves being hit by a vehicle or by a falling object. If you are hit by a tool or piece of equipment that is above your head, you could suffer serious injuries. You should always wear a hard hat and proper safety glasses, and avoid standing underneath a moving machine. Furthermore, you should make eye contact with drivers to avoid being hit, and properly secure all tools and machines before transporting them. In essence, watch where you’re standing and use protective gear to avoid being hit by an object.
Being caught in-between objects. Getting caught, crushed, or pinched in between objects is often life-threatening and can result in severe or catastrophic injuries. In order to stay safe, you should always be aware of your surroundings and never position yourself between a machine or moving object and a wall. Furthermore, you should keep your hands and legs away from the moving parts of machines in order to avoid a crushed limb. By keeping out of range of swinging or rotating equipment, and never wearing jewelry, gloves, or anything that could suck your hand or arm into a machine, you can help prevent a seirous incident.
Attentive & Compassionate Construction Accident Attorneys in Lexington
At Goeing Goeing & McQuinn PLLC, we provide informative legal services to injured clients. If you were injured in a construction accident, our Lexington construction accident lawyers can investigate the situation and gather evidence to build your case. We will communicate with you throughout the process, and will tenaciously uphold your right to justice as you pursue compensation for your injuries.
We are ready to guide you through the Kentucky legal system. Contact our team today to receive a free initial consultation.