How to Prevent a Construction Accident

By Warren & Kallianos, PLLC | August 18, 2016

People who work in the construction industry are some of the most at risk for on-the-job accidents and injuries. While not all workplace accidents are preventable, the vast majority of them are. They would not occur but for poor workplace safety standards, practices and equipment.

The following discusses the most common types of construction accidents in North Carolina, and tips for preventing injuries on construction sites.

The Most Common Construction Injuries

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that the following are the most common causes of fatal accidents among construction workers:

  • Falls (typically referring to falls from heights) are the most common cause of fatal injuries among construction workers. This type of accident was responsible for 359 of 899 total deaths among construction workers in 2014, according to the most recent OSHA data.
  • Electrocutions are also common, and were the cause of 74 construction worker deaths in 2014.
  • Struck by Object. Being struck by an object is a serious risk that construction workers face. This type of accident took 73 construction workers’ lives in 2014.
  • Caught in or in between machinery. This type of accident is tragic, and when it does not result in death, it can result in catastrophic injuries, such as loss of limb. Being caught in or in between machinery was the cause of death for 39 workers in the construction industry in 2014.

How to Prevent a Construction Accident

Some tips or ways to prevent a construction accident include the following:

For employers. As an employer, here are some tips for construction accident prevention:

  • Hold safety briefings. Make sure all of your employees are up-to-date on safe practices and workplace safety standards.
  • Provide all necessary safety equipment.
  • Have machines, tools, and vehicles regularly maintained and serviced.
  • Provide fall protection equipment (including things like proper scaffolding and harnesses).
  • Encourage rest and breaks.
  • Provider proper lighting for night work.
  • Invest in worker safety training.

For employees. As a construction worker, you play a big role in your safety, too. Here are some things you can do:

  • If you don’t know the answer to a safety question, find out before attempting to handle the issue on your own.
  • If you see something, say something. If you notice a dangerous situation, report it.
  • Reserve horseplay or rowdiness for after hours.
  • Stay focused on the job.
  • Make sure to get plenty of sleep. Fatigue can be dangerous.
  • Never take impairing medications or drink alcohol before working.

What to Do after a Charlotte Construction Accident

If you have been seriously injured in a construction accident in Charlotte, you may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim, as well as a third-party personal injury suit, depending on the circumstances.

If you have questions about how to seek all the compensation that you deserve after an accident, contact the Charlotte workplace injury attorneys at the law office of Warren & Kallianos for a free consultation.

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