The construction industry is full of hazardous conditions that may lead to a multitude of injuries for workers. Falls, dangerous substances and heavy equipment contribute to devastating physical and financial setbacks for employees and employers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2019, the construction industry had 79,660 nonfatal injuries.
To help provide a clearer picture of the importance of preventative safety standards, we will share the most common construction injuries. We’ll also provide an overview of their consequences, the significance of safety measures, and the legal options available if an accident does occur.
The Most Common Construction Injuries
Construction sites hum with activity from workers driving vehicles, using saws, nail guns, corrosive chemicals, and other job-related actions. One misstep can be the difference between going home safely or needing medical attention for a multitude of injuries, including:
- Sprains/Strains/Tears: Injuries like sprained ankles, knees, and wrists and strained or torn muscles are prevalent.
- Soreness/Pain: Long hours, repetitive motion, and overuse contribute to soreness and pain in various body parts, including the feet, shoulders, and legs.
- Fractures: Broken fingers, hands, feet, and even fractured skulls can happen because of falls from heights or being struck by objects.
- Cuts/Lacerations: Sharp tools and objects on construction sites can lead to cuts and lacerations to the face, neck, and other parts of the body.
- Bruises/Contusions: Blunt force trauma from slip and falls, powered vehicle accidents, or hammering can cause bruising and contusions.
Other construction injuries that can occur include:
- Chemical/Thermal Burns
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Puncture wounds
- Amputations
- Hearing Loss
- Vision loss
What Causes Injury?
Several factors lead to construction injuries. Mislabeled or unlabeled equipment, defective equipment, and improper training can make an already dangerous work environment and job even more dangerous. Exposed wiring can lead to burns and electrocution. Negligence and improper handling of equipment is another major contributor to the thousands of yearly injuries.
However, there are four hazards that have been dubbed the “Fatal Four” because they are the primary causes of death in the construction industry. The Fatal Four hazards are:
- Falls – OSHA lists falls as the leading cause of death in construction. These falls accounted for 351 fatalities in 2020.
- Struck-by incidents – These incidents involve objects forcefully striking workers and contributed to over 30% of nonfatal construction injuries in 2019.
- Electrocutions – These caused nearly 8% of construction fatalities in 2021.
- Caught-In or Between – This type of injury resulted in about 5% of construction fatalities in 2021.
Understanding the Impact of Common Construction Injuries
Beyond the immediate physical harm, construction injuries can have long-lasting consequences for workers, their families, and employers.
- Medical & rehabilitation – In 2021, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) recorded 23 construction and extraction job fatalities in Alabama. There was also extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation for those who were injured.
- Lost wages – Injuries can result in temporary or permanent disability. These disabilities lead to lost wages and financial strain. The BLS recorded a rate of 238.7 nonfatal-days-away-from-work cases for every 10,000 full-time construction workers.
- Emotional toll – Physical pain and disfigurement may contribute to depression or psychological distress.
Workplace Safety Measures
Preventing construction injuries requires collaboration between employers and employees. Here are some safety measures that are aligned with OSHA standards:
For Employers:
- Implement comprehensive training programs.
- Provide and enforce the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Conduct frequent inspections.
- Establish clear response protocols.
- Foster a safe-reporting culture among employees.
For Employees:
- Follow safety protocols and guidelines.
- Communicate with colleagues and supervisors about unsafe conditions.
- Report any signs of fatigue or stress that may compromise safety.
- Actively participate in safety training programs.
- Consistently wear PPE correctly.
Legal Recourse for Construction Injury Victims
If you have suffered an injury at a construction site, several avenues are available for financial and legal assistance.
Workers’ Compensation
- Wage replacement and medical benefits for employees injured at work
- Helps with medical and personal expenses
Third-Party Liability Claims
- A personal injury claim against a third party (not the employer) responsible for the injury
- Filed against manufacturers of defective equipment, negligent subcontractors, or entities that contributed to the accident
Personal Injury Attorneys
- Specialize in navigating construction injury cases
- Conduct thorough investigations, gather evidence, and determine liable parties
- Negotiate with insurance companies or litigate to secure fair compensation
Prioritizing safety and using the available resources can significantly reduce construction worksite injuries. Still, accidents do happen. If you have been injured in a construction worksite accident, please contact the experienced attorneys at Timberlake, League, and Brooks. We are dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve.
