The Most Common Construction Hazards
Building and Wood Worker’s International (BWI) reports that construction accidents account for more than 100,000 fatal injuries each year, with hundreds of thousands of others the victims of health problems and serious injuries caused by poor working conditions. BWI explains that there are several common causes of serious construction accidents.
Falls
The most common cause of death in the construction industry, as construction workers often fall from significant heights. A construction site fall sometimes occurs due to a lack of edge protection on scaffolding and unprotected openings on shafts and stairways.
Falling Objects
Falling objects can strike construction workers and cause brain injuries or deaths. This is what makes wearing a hard hat so important. When construction companies do not provide tool belts or offer proper tool storage for workers, the risk of falling objects increases.
Crush Injuries
Construction workers are especially at risk for crush injuries when working with vehicles or in shafts or mines. Mines can collapse and vehicles can cause cave-ins. Excavation work can also cause mine walls to collapse.
Chemical Exposure
Construction workers are sometimes exposed to fumes, vapors, gases, dusts, and liquids that contain harmful substances. These substances can cause serious heart, lung, and nervous system defects. Personal protective equipment can reduce exposure, but some companies do not provide the right equipment in a misguided effort to cut costs.
If you or a loved one suffered serious injuries in a construction accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses and lost wages. The experienced Glendale construction site accident lawyers at The Breyer Law Offices P.C. will fight for your rights every step of the way. Call us at (602) 457-6222 to schedule a free and confidential review of your case.
