OSHA reports that out of the 4,693 worker fatalities in private industry in 2016, 21.1 percent of those were in construction. That is one in five workers who were killed from one industry.
Construction work is dangerous, with many different ways people can get hurt on a construction site. The “Fatal Four” accounts for most of the construction incidents: falls, getting struck by objects, electrocutions, and getting caught in-between objects.
Anytime someone works in a construction zone, they should be provided with proper equipment and proper training.
Equipment
Due to the large amount of hazards at a construction site, employers must ensure that employees have proper gear for the job they are doing:
- Footwear
- Eyewear
- Head gear
- Shirts
- Pants
- Harnesses
Along with gear that protects them, all workers should be provided with tools and machinery that are not faulty. If a tool or machine malfunctions, they can seriously hurt workers.
Training
When an employee is hired, orientation should include general construction site safety.
Every worker should be trained to do the job they are asked to do. If someone is asked to perform a job that they have no experience in, they are more likely to get injured.
Unfortunately, we know that smaller construction companies tend to offer less training, which is why we see that smaller companies account for a higher number of fatal falls.
Injuries
Construction injuries can range from minor bumps and bruises to more major situations like spinal cord and brain injuries.
Nearly all construction workers will have at least one work-related injury over their career. This could mean extended hospital stays and time away from work.
Will workers’ compensation offer enough to support your family?
Will you be able to perform at the same level when you return to work?
What To Do
We know that getting hurt is a scary experience. You may not know how long it will take to heal. If you have to miss work for a period of time, we know that you will wonder how to support your family. Workers’ compensation insurance just may not go far enough. If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, the Dante Law Firm wants to help you. When you need a North Miami construction accident attorney, our team will help you get the compensation you deserve. You can contact us by clicking here or calling 305-949-2526 for a free consultation.
Our country wouldn’t be what it is today if it weren’t for the men and women who work in construction. Every day, they work to build our homes, keep our roads safe, and ensure our infrastructure is sound.
(954) 365-0000
(954) 365-0000