Working on a construction site is a very dangerous job, often leading to life-altering injuries. Injuries such as paralysis, burns, eye injuries, broken bones, sprains, cuts, or even death can happen, which pose a mental, physical, and financial strain.
When there’s an accident at work, your employers can be liable for any injury that has occurred, as they are responsible for your safety in the workplace. There are a few common construction accidents that can occur and, here at The Claims Partnership, we can give you expert advice on issues such as falling object accident claims or fall from height accident claims.
1. Being struck by a vehicle
Working either close to motorways and roads, or on undertaking work on roads, places workers in danger of being struck by a moving vehicle. Although signs are typically placed to indicate that work is being conducted, some drivers still tend to drive rather recklessly or don’t pay enough attention. This can lead to a worker being fatally struck by a vehicle.
2. Slips and falls from heights
With ladders, scaffolds, roofs, and other elevated and high places in construction sites, there’s a high chance of a slip and a fall from dangerous heights. This is especially concerning when scaffolding isn’t properly set up. These types of falls from heights can be extremely harmful, leading to fatal injuries, chronic issues, and even death.
3. Electrocution accidents
Construction sites have a lot of electrical components, equipment, and wiring at any given time, making it extremely dangerous. Whether by unfinished electrical connections or faulty wiring, construction workers run the risk of electrocution and shock.
4. Being exhausted and overworked
Working overtime is usually a staple of working in construction, however, it’s vital that you dont overwork to the point of exhaustion. Mistakes can happen when you’ve overexerted yourself, leading to either your life or your co-workers’ lives being at risk.
5. Struck by a falling object
Due to the nature of a construction site, there is an increased risk of workers being struck by a falling object or falling debris. Construction hats help to protect workers, but they don’t protect the rest of the body. Any materials that are not properly secure could fall on workers passing below, which can lead to their death or severe impairment.
What are Your Employers’ Responsibilities?
The construction site manager is responsible for your safety and for the safety of the rest of the workers. They must supply adequate protective gear such as hard hats, boots, goggles, ear plugs, and other equipment that is thought to help safeguard your health and well-being.
Any workers assigned to machinery or tools must have the appropriate trainings and certifications for a safe use. In addition, the construction site needs to be regularly cleaned and tidied to ensure no one trips and falls. Fire escapes should be kept clear, with fire extinguishers maintained to the legal standards.
Safe work procedures and risk assessments must be conducted on a regular basis, ensuring that all workers are aware of potential dangers and how to prevent them. This also includes regular maintenance to every machinery, scaffolding, and ladders.
Do you believe your employer has been negligent with your safety, leading to a work injury? Contact us to find out how you can make a claim for a construction site work accident.