Construction work can be exhausting and physically demanding. It can also be outright dangerous for professionals. Small mistakes can lead to a worker getting injured or injuring someone else. Thankfully, construction workers who get hurt on the job are often eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. They can apply for benefits that cover their lost wages and pay for medical care after an injury. Workers who get hurt on the job may need help navigating the benefits process.
Of course, most professionals prefer to avoid injury rather than to seek compensation for their injuries after the fact. Learning about the hazards that come with construction work can help professionals minimize their risk of lost time incidents or worse. The following are the leading causes of construction professionals’ injuries on the job.
Heights
Both residential and commercial construction professionals often perform their jobs at significant elevations. It only takes a moment to make a mistake that could lead to serious injury or death. Particularly when workers do not consistently use harnesses while working at an elevation, they could sustain severe injuries if they fall.
Electrical exposure
Construction professionals often require temporary electrical supply to operate their tools. Some of them even work directly with electricity while installing wiring. Small mistakes when handling electrical supply or working close to wires can result in catastrophic injuries.
Below-grade work
Working in trenches can be just as dangerous as working at a significant elevation. Other people might drop items, or there could be a cave-in that leads to a crushing incident. The proper use of trench boxes and other safety equipment can take some of the risk out of working below grade.
Dangerous tools and equipment
Construction workers often have to handle heavy machinery and powerful tools. That machinery can cause injuries through direct accidental contact. Accidental contact with tools could also cause injury, as could the frequent need to handle devices that cause intense vibrations.
Struck-by incidents
Other workers could drop tools for raw materials from an elevation and strike workers below. Machinery can make accidental contact with individuals. Struck-by incidents come in many different forms, but all of them have the potential to cause devastating injuries.
The worse the traumatic injuries a worker suffers are, the more expensive their medical care may be and the longer they may be away from work. Thankfully, they don’t need proof of fault to qualify for medical benefits and disability coverage through workers’ compensation. Learning more about workers’ compensation benefits and common job hazards can protect people from the worst possible outcomes at construction sites. Professionals need to watch closely for known hazards and may need support if they get hurt on the job.
