Common construction site injuries and their causes

Construction is one of the most dangerous industries for workers in the United States. According to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), about 20% of worker fatalities in 2019 were in construction. Construction workers face different risks, and they can get injuries in various ways. However, what the industry calls the construction focus four hazards are the most common causes of injuries in construction workers.

Focus four hazards and injuries

The Center for Construction Research and Training has identified that the construction focus four hazards caused almost two-thirds of fatal construction injuries in 2019. These hazards include falls, electrocutions, getting caught in between materials and getting struck by falling debris. Workers can survive accidents from these hazards but suffer serious injuries in return. Possible injuries from these hazards include:

• Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
• Broken bones
• Paralysis and spinal cord injuries
• Eye injuries and loss of vision
• Neck and back injuries
• Lacerations
• Cardiac arrests
• Muscle, nerve and tissue destruction
• Thermal burns

Some of these injuries can be deadly if the injured worker does not receive immediate medical treatment. Because of this, employers must take all measures necessary to protect workers against the “focus four” hazards.

An employer’s duty

Employers must ensure safe work conditions, especially in the construction industry. Employers of construction workers must comply with OSHA’s safety standards and regulations to reduce the risk of injuries. However, accidents can happen even when employers do their best to prevent them. That is why construction workers have the right to seek compensation when they get an injury on the job.

The right of the worker

Workers who get injuries at work have the right to seek compensation for their medical expenses and lost wages. Employers must have insurance to be able to provide their injured workers with the compensation they deserve. However, insurers can sometimes deny compensation claims for different reasons.  If this happened to you, you have the right to request a hearing before the Industrial Commission. It is important that you consult with an attorney who is not only experienced but a Board Certified Specialist in Workers’ Compensation, like Attorney Bob Bollinger. Fight back and get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.