As construction workers, we are well aware of the dangers associated with the job. However, knowing the most common types of fatalities in the construction industry is useful for identifying where risk reduction efforts need to be focused. Every year, thousands of workers across the country are killed on the job. This number represents an estimate of the number of construction workers that die as a result of their occupation. This is the equivalent of one death every 14 hours. As the cost of construction projects has risen over the past few decades, the importance of having an experienced team on the job has become even more important. If you’re considering a career in the construction industry or just want to brush up on your safety knowledge, you may want to familiarize yourself with these statistics so that you can make sure they don’t become statistics about you!
Falls
Falls account for the majority of fatalities in the construction industry, accounting for over 50% of all fatalities. The most common cause of falls is due to miscommunication between team members. For example, if a worker is reaching for a ladder that has been left unsecured, they may trip and fall. This is an example of a near-miss, which can cost organizations millions of dollars in liability. To help prevent these types of falls from happening, make sure that all ladders are properly secured and that workers are aware of all safety protocols.
Cranes
Cranes are responsible for nearly 15% of all fatalities in the construction industry. The majority of these fatalities are a result of workers not properly securing loads. The American National Safety Council estimates that workers will experience some form of a crane-related fatality every five days. The importance of working closely with crane operators cannot be stressed enough. Make sure that you are present during crane operations and that you understand the hazards to which you are exposed.
Ladders and Scaffolding
Ladders and Scaffolding account for nearly 15% of all fatalities in the construction industry. The majority of these fatalities are a result of workers not properly securing loads. The American National Safety Council estimates that workers will experience some form of a crane-related fatality every five days.The importance of working closely with crane operators cannot be stressed enough. Make sure that you are present during crane operations and that you understand the hazards to which you are exposed.
Electrocution
As much as 15% of all fatalities in the construction industry are a result of workers coming into contact with live wires. The most common cause of these fatalities is a lack of proper personal protective equipment (PPE). Make sure that you are properly trained and aware of all safety protocols when working on live electrical wires.It is important to follow the “rule of thumb”: when working near electrical wires, keep your hands a minimum of 18 inches away from the wires. If you are working on a ladder, make sure that it is properly grounded.
Vehicle Crashes
Vehicle-related fatalities account for 5% of all fatalities in the construction industry. The majority of these fatalities are a result of negligence and lack of communication between team members. Make sure that all team members are aware of each other’s travel routes and are following the proper protocols for vehicle safety.It is important to follow the “rule of thumb” when driving in the construction zone: reduce your speed by 25 mph and remain a minimum of three car lengths away from the construction site if you cannot see around a curve. This will not only protect you from oncoming traffic but also help to ensure that you obey construction signage.
Exposure to Hazardous Materials
Exposure to hazardous materials accounts for 3% of all fatalities in the construction industry. The most common cause of these fatalities is a lack of proper safety training. Make sure that all team members are properly trained for all hazards associated with the construction industry.
Conclusion
Construction is one of the most dangerous occupations in the world and those working in the industry must be extremely cautious to avoid injury or death. If you are planning to work in the construction industry, it is important to be aware of the dangers associated with the job so that you can take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.