When a city decides to construct a new bridge or a company wants to build a skyscraper for its new headquarters, a lot of work goes into the process. Someone dreams up an idea and an architect lays out the plans, but how does the dream come to life? Construction site workers prepare the grounds, move materials, and build structures. They have to erect scaffolding and operate machinery like cranes and forklifts. It is a dangerous job that comes with a variety of potential risks and hazards. Because of these dangers, accidents often occur on a construction site. If you were injured during your work on a construction site, a Memphis work injury lawyer can offer you skilled assistance and experienced representation.
What Accidents Are Common on Construction Sites?
Because the job requires an array of tools and machines, accidents are bound to happen. Workers handle hammers, drills, saws, cranes, ladders, bulldozers, trucks, excavators, jackhammers, and more. Some accidents that can occur when working on projects include the following.
- Falling from heights like ladders, roofs, scaffolding, etc.
- Workers being struck by falling tools and objects
- Slips and trips over debris and wiring
- Machinery malfunction accidents
- Electrocution from power lines
- Workers being caught in or between heavy machinery or objects
- Workers misusing tools and hurting themselves
- Unexpected fires or explosions
- Structural collapses from walls, trenches, scaffolding, etc.
- Vehicle collisions especially when the construction site is near or on a highway
- Workers overexerting themselves
- Exposure to harmful substances
All of these accidents are likely to happen at one time or another when dealing with construction. They can have various outcomes and result in minor or significant bodily injury.
What Injuries Can Workers Face?
When a construction worker experiences any of the previously listed accidents while working, they can face an abundance of injuries. All of the below injuries can happen during a construction site accident.
- Broken bones, fractures, or dislocations
- Concussions or other traumatic brain injuries
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Burns or electric shock
- Amputated fingers, toes, and limbs
- Eye injuries or vision impairment
- Hearing impairment
- Internal injuries
- Skin diseases or cancers from toxic exposure
- Death
How Can I Stay Safe When Working in Construction?
You can stay safe on a construction site through several measures. First, it is vital that you always remain aware of your surroundings. With dangerous machinery and tools scattered around the job site, ensure you are paying attention to the goings on around you.
One of the best ways to avoid injuries and stay safe while working on a construction site is to ensure you are wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times. Protect your entire body with hard hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, long sleeves, long pants, boots, and a high visibility vest. If you are going to be working from a height, wear a harness and make sure to strap in. These safety measures can prevent an accident from causing a serious injury.
Make sure to keep your job site clean. Pick up after yourself so no one is tripping on tools, nails, or other loose debris.
