What are the top safety hazards at construction sites?
Construction workers spend their days in some of the most hazardous conditions known to man. Despite heavy OSHA regulation, construction accidents are far too common and fatalities among the construction occupations are the highest of any industry in California.
Construction Worker Fatality in San Diego
A construction worker in San Diego died at the scene of a construction accident in San Diego late last month when a column fell on him. The man was part of a crew constructing a residential-retail high-rise in the 400 block of 16th Street.
According to the Department of Industrial Relations, the accident happened when another worker was preparing to pour concrete into a form. The form then fell on top of the other worker. Cal OSHA is investigating the accident.
Top Construction Safety Hazards
Construction accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, many of which could be prevented. OSHA has identified the “Fatal Four” of construction deaths, which include:
- Falls – account for nearly 40% of construction-related fatalities
- Electrocutions – represent 8.2% of construction fatalities
- Struck by Object – 8.1% of construction fatalities are caused by objects striking workers
- Caught in Between – 4.3% of construction fatalities are caused by workers being caught in or compressed by equipment, structures or other objects
These types of accidents are preventable. According to OSHA, if the Fatal Four accidents were eliminated, 545 construction workers’ lives would be saved.
Most Violated OSHA Standards
OSHA has compiled the Top 10 most violated standards in the US for FY 2015. If construction companies complied with the following, more accidents could be prevented:
- Fall protection
- Hazard communication
- Scaffolding safety
- Respiratory protection
- Hazardous energy control
- Powered industrial truck safety
- Ladder safety
- Electrical wiring safety
- Machinery and machine guarding
- Electrical system design requirements
Common Construction Injuries
Construction injuries can range from broken bones, burns, abrasions, cuts, lacerations, eye-damage, hearing damage and traumatic brain injuries. The effects of these injuries can be extensive, often affecting entire families.
Proving liability in construction accidents can be tough. It helps to have an experienced construction accident attorney on your side. The attorneys at J&Y specialize in construction accident injuries. J&Y is dedicated to ensuring our clients get the care and compensation that they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation at 888.806.6722.