Warmer spring weather signals the start of construction across Pennsylvania on roads, bridges, buildings and more. This also marks the time for employers, property owners and construction site workers alike to take measures to guard against the potential for serious accidents.
Construction sites can pose constant risks for workers. These risks can include defective equipment, human error, dangerous conditions and more that lead to serious and sometimes fatal injuries on Pennsylvania work sites.
Common causes of fatal injuries on construction sites
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reported that of the 4,674 worker fatalities in 2017, just over 20 percent of deaths came from the construction industry. The top causes of death included falls, being struck by an object, electrocution and becoming caught between or compressed by heavy objects.
Some of the most common incidents on construction sites that can lead to both injuries and fatalities include:
- Falls from elevated surfaces, including scaffolding, ladders, cranes and more
- Defective products, equipment and machinery
- Fires, explosions or electrocutions
- Lack of respiratory protection for hazardous or poisonous conditions
- Repetitive motion injuries from repeating one singular motion
These accidents can lead to severe injuries, including broken bones, amputation, serious burns, spinal cord, neck or head injuries, side effects from exposure to toxic chemicals and more.
What workers can do to stay safe
Whether due to a drive to meet deadlines, poor communication, insufficient training or more, workers across Pennsylvania may experience dangerous circumstances out of their control. You can take some steps to enhance the safety of yourself and those around you. Stick to the rules of the construction site, take extra safety measures around heavy machinery and while operating this equipment and more.
What to do after an accident
After an accident, you may fear how long it will be before you can return to work, how you will recover the income you need and more. Filing a workers’ compensation claim with your employer is the first step to uncovering the compensation you need while you recover. An attorney can assist you in navigating this process and reviewing your accident to pursue the full amount of compensation you deserve.