Construction is a rewarding job, but it’s also one of the most dangerous fields you can work in. As an industry, construction has double the hazards of others. Whether you’re a construction site manager or an employee, you should be aware of the dangers of the job. That way, you can be vigilant and protect yourself and those around you.
Tripping and Slipping
The most common accidents in labor-intensive jobs are trips and slips. But the odds are even higher that you’ll suffer an injury when you’re in construction, with thousands of workers getting hurt annually. That’s because there are countless uneven and unstable surfaces on building sites. The best way to mitigate the risks is to communicate with others about the hazards of the site. In addition, avoid distractions during work, and be mindful of your surroundings.
Falling From a Height
Doing jobs far above the ground is part of the job of a construction worker. Unfortunately, the working conditions aren’t always safe, resulting in falls – some even fatal.
Safety training must be a prerequisite before employees work from a height. They should learn to work on ladders, scaffolding, and rooves that have safety nets and double guardrails around them. In addition, employers must assess the safety risks of a construction site and develop a plan to ensure workers’ safety.
Moving Objects
Construction sites are constantly evolving. There’s non-stop movement from supply vehicles, heavy machinery, and overhead lifting equipment. As a result, workers face the risk of being struck by these moving objects. Uneven surfaces can make it an even more dangerous environment. Employees must maintain a safe distance from running equipment and wear PPEs to increase visibility. They must always be aware of their surroundings, being extra careful around objects without warning lights or sounds.
Loud Noises
Heights and heavy machinery aren’t the only dangers workers face. Loud noises in construction sites are another possible hazard. They can be distracting, causing employees to lose focus and have accidents. They can also cause long-term health issues like deafness. Employers must perform a noise risk assessment and provide workers with ear protection.
Manual Handling
Most workers are fit enough to lift heavy objects, but that doesn’t mean they can’t sustain injuries. Lifting heavy objects can lead to back issues, musculoskeletal disorders, and repetitive motion injuries. Hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) is one of the most common effects of manual handling. It’s a painful disease of the nerves, blood vessels, and joints caused by prolonged usage of power tools. While HVAS is preventable, it’s permanent once you get it. Employers should provide workers with protective gear to prevent possible debilitating effects of power tools.
Electric Shock
There are thousands of electrical accidents on construction sites annually. They happen when workers come in contact with underground and overhead cables and electrical equipment. Electric shocks are dangerous enough, but they can lead to falls from scaffolding and ladders. Employers must assign a construction site’s electrical work to qualified electricians, and not untrained workers.
Dust, Fibers, and Materials
You can imagine how much dust there is on construction sites. To make matters worse, it’s often fine and invisible, mixing with toxic fibers and materials. This combination harms the lungs and can lead to asthma, silicosis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Employers are responsible for providing protective equipment and ensuring that workers use it.
Construction Site Mishaps Are Preventable
There are countless construction hazards, but most are preventable with proper planning. It also helps to instill a strong sense of responsibility among workers, encouraging them to be mindful and vigilant. For more information, contact Friedman Law Offices at +1 800-876-1093.