5 Construction Building Hazards

Posted in Work Injury on May 20, 2024

Every construction employee and contractor deserves a safe working environment. Unfortunately, the construction industry presents a myriad of challenges and safety concerns on a daily basis. No matter what type of construction site, there are hazards. Here, our work injury lawyers in Phoenix want to review some of the most common hazards around construction sites that can cause injuries not only to construction employees but also innocent bystanders.

1. Falling (from Same Level or Heights)

Falls are the leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry, and they can happen in various ways. Workers can fall from ladders, scaffolding, roofs, or they can simply trip over objects at the same level.

• Prevention Tips: Provide guardrails, harnesses, and safety nets where needed. Ensure ladders and scaffolding are stable, secure, and inspected before use. Keep work areas clear of debris to minimize tripping hazards.

2. Slips and Trips

Uneven surfaces, spills, and obstructed walkways can lead to slips and trips on construction sites. These incidents often result in sprains, fractures, and head injuries.

• Prevention Tips: Install handrails, non-slip surfaces, and proper lighting. Promptly clean up spills and remove unnecessary debris. Workers should wear slip-resistant footwear and be cautious on wet or icy surfaces.

3. Airborne Material Exposure

Construction sites can expose workers to hazardous airborne materials like dust, asbestos, and chemicals. Prolonged exposure can lead to chronic respiratory diseases and other health issues.

• Prevention Tips: Ensure proper ventilation and provide personal protective equipment (PPE) like respirators and face shields. Regularly monitor air quality and minimize dust through water suppression or vacuum systems.

4. Struck by Objects

Being struck by falling or moving objects is another significant hazard. This includes falling tools, equipment, or construction materials, and also machinery like cranes or forklifts.

• Prevention Tips: Wear hard hats and high-visibility clothing. Barricade dangerous areas and secure all equipment at height. Establish exclusion zones around heavy machinery and ensure proper training for operators.

5. Hearing and Vision Hazards

Construction sites are noisy, and exposure to loud machinery can lead to long-term hearing loss. Welding, cutting, and grinding operations also produce bright light and sparks that can cause vision damage.

• Prevention Tips: Just like the other prevention tips we’ve mentioned here, it always seems to come back to having the proper equipment. OSHA requires every employer to ensure workers have the proper eye and face protection to protect against hearing and vision hazards in the workplace.

May is Building Safety Month

May is Building Safety Month, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures in minimizing construction hazards. Employers should identify and eliminate these risks to protect their workforce. Safety training, regular site inspections, and adherence to OSHA and local safety guidelines are crucial. An attorney can also help hold employers accountable if negligence leads to injury.

If you have been harmed due to the negligent actions of an employer or a third party in the workplace, you may be able to recover compensation for your losses. Sometimes, a workers’ compensation claim is unsuccessful or fails to bring enough compensation to the injured worker. An attorney can help work through the process of tackling claims avenues.