Safety must be taken extremely seriously on a construction site due to the variety of hazardous equipment, tools, and chemicals construction workers encounter on a regular basis. Overall, construction site safety consists of all the protocols and rules on a work site that create a safe working environment. Safety also includes training and proper protection and equipment.
It is both the responsibility of the employer to keep their employees safe and the individual to protect themselves in these high-stakes working conditions. The best way to prepare for these situations is to learn about the different types of accidents and injuries that can occur, what causes them, and how to prevent them from happening.
Types of Accidents and Injuries on a Construction Site
Construction site safety is paramount. Common types of accidents on a work site often include:
- Falls from heights
- Explosions
- Machinery malfunctions
- Caught in between accidents
- Electrocution
- Auto accidents
- Slip and falls
- Toxic chemical exposure
Injuries that can occur include but are not limited to neck, head, and spinal injuries, back pain, musculoskeletal disorders, internal organ disorders, burns, amputations, cardiovascular issues, fractures, and even death.
Construction Site Safety and Accident Prevention
Potential construction site hazards can be mitigated by following safety rules and regulations. Some are easier to maintain, such as wearing protective clothing and gear (PPE), keeping the workspace clean, being aware of your surroundings, and being careful with all machines and equipment. Other cautionary measures, such as employee safety training, regular safety meetings, proper storage and maintenance of equipment and tools, safeguards (such as barriers, fences, etc.), and fall protection systems, may require more time or money. Still, they are essential to maintaining a safe work environment. Having an emergency response plan instructing employees on what to do in a crisis is also essential.
Every construction site must follow the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) guidelines. Some specific topics that OSHA covers include scaffolding (ex: never exceed the maximum load), ladders (ex: carry tools up and down using a toolbelt), fall protection (ex: implement fall arrest systems), personal protection (ex: always wear head protection), and hazard communication (ex: record and track all chemicals on the site).
Call To Learn More About Construction Site Safety Requirements
Construction site safety practices are vital to protecting workers on the site as well as pedestrians and other people who may pass by. In the case of a construction site accident, it is essential to have an attorney who you can trust to fight for a favorable outcome. Contact the Law Office of David E. Gordon today for a free consultation with an experienced attorney who will give you their full attention and help you develop a strategic plan for your case.
