Some Types of Construction Accidents
There are over 10 million individuals working in construction in the United States, and of all work-related deaths, the construction industry has the highest rate at 21%. If you are a construction worker, you could be at risk for a serious construction-related injury. That’s why it’s important to know the most common types of construction accidents.
Falls at Construction Sites
In 2016, falls were reported as the leading cause of fatalities on construction sites. Working in high places puts construction workers at risk for falls, and they can happen when scaffolds are not set up properly, when surfaces are wet and slick, and anytime stairs, ladders, or work platforms do not have sufficient support. Falls can also occur when guardrails are not present.
This type of accident can be both life- and limb-threatening. If you experience a construction-related fall, you could be permanently disabled. Whether you work in residential or commercial construction, if your job involves climbing or working on elevated platforms, you could easily fall and be injured.
Burns in the Construction Environment
Construction workers may be susceptible to many types of burns, some of which may not be so obvious. Exposing skin to caustic substances such as cleaners containing acid and flammable substances like fuel can cause chemical burns. Also, chemicals that give off fumes can cause burns and damage the lungs and eyes. Roofing materials such as asphalt and tar can also cause burns.
Exposure to chemicals can happen as a result of inadequate protection. If your job requires you to work with or around dangerous chemicals, your employer should ensure that you wear the proper protective gear for the job. Depending on your duties, protective gear can include gloves, goggles, clothing that will not permit chemicals to soak through to the skin, and protective footwear. In situations where you can inhale fumes, your employer should provide proper ventilation and respirators. If they do not provide you with this gear and you get injured, you can contact a Bridgewater construction accident lawyer.
Burns can also occur as a result of sparks from electrical wires and explosions. Digging near a gas line or welding near flammable materials can result in explosions that can kill or maim construction workers or others in the vicinity. Scalding water and steam from punctured water lines can also cause burns.
Caught-In or Caught-Between Accidents
Construction sites are environments where workers are at risk for caught-in or caught-between injuries. The following are causes of caught-in or caught-between accidents as described by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration:
- Being crushed by a vehicle backing up to a wall or dock
- Cave-ins that suffocate workers during trench work
- Getting too close to machinery that can grab and pull in clothing or limbs
These accidents often result in death.
Struck-By Accidents
Struck-by hazards include any object or moving vehicle that could strike a construction worker. Falling cranes, tools that fall from high platforms, moving vehicles, and swinging objects can all strike a worker and cause serious injuries.
When objects or vehicles strike construction workers, fatalities or extensive injuries including broken bones, internal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries can occur.
If you suffer a serious injury while working on a construction site, the effects can be devastating. If you survive the injuries, you can be left with a permanent disability, chronic pain, damaged skin tissue or organs, and post-traumatic stress. If you experience any of these issues, more than likely you will not be able to work. Additionally, mounting medical bills will add to financial distress.
When construction workers experience injuries on the job, some companies will try to avoid paying medical bills and offer little if any compensation for pain and suffering. If you or someone you care about has suffered as a result of a construction accident, you should not have to settle for less than you deserve.
A Bridgewater construction accident lawyer will work hard to help you get fair compensation for your injuries. At the , we are ready to be your advocate when you are injured in a construction accident in New Jersey. Call our office in Somerville at (609) 771-8611 today.
