Construction workers may be some of the toughest people around, but they aren’t invincible. In an environment filled with heavy machinery, chemicals, scaffolding, and building materials, it’s easy to see why construction workers have to constantly be on their toes to avoid injury. However, there are a number of accidents that are totally preventable at the construction site. Here are some of the most common construction related personal injury hazards.
Stairways and Ladders
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, nearly 25,000 people are injured every year due to accidents relating to ladders and stairways at construction sites. About half of these injuries were so serious that construction workers had to take time off work. These accidents could be caused by using improper ladders or stairs, overloading ladders beyond capacity, or slickness from grease or dirt.
Scaffolding Accidents
Scaffolding is used to allow construction workers to reach areas high above the ground. Unfortunately, an estimated 4,500 injuries and 50 fatalities per year are related to scaffolding problems. Potential issues with scaffolding include improper assembly, unstable objects on scaffolds, lack of safety equipment, and damaged equipment.
Machine Accidents
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 13% of all construction-related fatalities involve hazardous contact with heavy-duty construction machines and equipment. In 2002, this accounted for over 92,000 injuries, the majority of which result from specialized machinery for metal and woodworking. Machine accidents also accounted for 483 fatalities that same year.
If you’ve suffered from a personal injury at a construction site, then you may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, medical expenses, and more. Contact D’Agostino and Associates in Staten Island for high-quality legal representation. We’ll help you fight for the compensation you deserve. For a legal consultation, call (888) 860-5787 today.
