Construction sites are notorious for risky spots and extreme injuries. However, construction workers still attend work each day and navigate sites to ensure that projects finished effectively.
If workers know the top hazards in a construction site, they may be able to avoid them and prevent any serious injuries down the line. Some of the most common and dangerous risks include:
Heights
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls from heights are the leading cause of fatalities in construction. Also, slip and falls on the same level are the leading cause of injuries. Many employers implement safety precautions for heights over six feet. However, many workers still find themselves injured at the end of the workday.
Moving Objects
Another common cause of injuries is moving objects. There are so many circumstances where employees are moving materials, equipment, etc., across the construction site. There are also many circumstances where those moving objects fall and hurt another worker. It could cause a severe accident if the object were heavy or sturdy like concrete.
Noise
Every construction site has a significant amount of noise. Without the right protection, employees could suffer from long-term hearing damage. It could even lead to another injury as workers cannot hear directions from supervisors or project managers.
Airborne Fibers and Materials
Many workers are exposed to dangerous substances through the air and fibers they work with, including asbestos. Some of these airborne toxins and fibers could lead to serious disease and respiratory issues, such as pulmonary disease, asthma and lung cancer. Employees should use proper masks and handle materials properly to minimize exposure.
Collapsing Trenches
Most companies take all the precautions necessary to prevent collapsing trenches on their sites. However, any time a building is demolished, there is the potential for sudden collapse. Workers need to stay vigilant surrounding trenches and make sure there are regular inspections whenever workers are on site.
These are just a handful of the most common hazards. There are dangers around every corner of a construction site, so employees need to keep an eye out. If they do get injured, seek the proper compensation for your claims.
