The construction industry has a reputation for being dangerous and risky. However, this isn’t always the case. In fact, the majority of construction-related injuries are not fatal and can be prevented with proper safety precautions.While construction sites can be dangerous places, the workers put their lives at risk on a daily basis. To ensure their safety as well as that of their fellow workers, employers are required to comply with OSHA regulations regarding occupational safety and health (OSHA). Many people associate construction work with a high risk of injury or death. However, the reality is that most injuries are minor, and fatalities are rare.Nevertheless, construction workers are at greater risk for injury than other workers. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that there are over 25,000 fatalities and over 679,000 non-fatal injuries each year in the construction sector. Although these numbers seem high, they are actually comparable to other industries. The BLS also reports that injuries are more common among workers in the construction industry than workers in any other industry. However, there are certain groups of workers in the construction industry that are at a higher risk for injury than others. The following is a list of common workers in the construction industry along with the type of injuries they are at a risk for contracting:

Trench Workers

Trench workers are the people who dig the trenches for underground wires or pipes. They are also commonly known as “trench rats” because they spend their entire days in the dirt, often in very dirty conditions.The most common types of injuries suffered by trench workers are trench foot and back injuries. These are caused by prolonged exposure to water and dirt, which can be very dangerous.Trench workers are also at risk for other types of injuries, including: head injuries from falling objects or being struck by falling objects; eye injury from flying debris or dirt; musculoskeletal injuries from digging with heavy machinery; and lacerations from working around heavy machinery.

Roofers

Roofers are responsible for installing and repairing the rooftops of buildings. These workers are often exposed to high risks such as falls from heights or injury from falling objects.The most common types of injuries that roofers are at risk for are: falls from heights; injuries from moving heavy objects; injuries from trip-worthy hazards; and musculoskeletal injuries from lifting heavy objects.

Excavators and Truck Drivers

Excavators and truck drivers are responsible for moving large amounts of dirt from one location to another. As a result, they are frequently at risk for injuries from slips, falls, and other types of mishaps.Excavator drivers are at risk for back and foot injuries from being forced to operate in an awkward position for long periods of time. Tractor-trailer drivers are at risk for back and foot injuries from being forced to operate in an awkward position for long periods of time.

Bricklayers, Carpenters, and Roofers

Bricklayers, carpenters, and roofers are all involved in construction activities that involve working with heavy, bulky materials. This can lead to injuries from overexertion or falls.Overexertion injuries are caused by workers working too much, too quickly. Falls from ladders or scaffolds are another cause of overexertion injuries.Falls from heights are also a common cause of injuries among these workers. Bricklayers and roofers can also be at risk for musculoskeletal injuries from lifting heavy materials.

Electricians and Power Engineers

Electricians and power engineers are responsible for installing and maintaining electrical wires and cables. These workers are often exposed to high risks such as falls from heights or injury from falling objects.The most common types of injuries suffered by electricians and power engineers are: injuries from moving heavy objects; head injuries from falling objects; and musculoskeletal injuries from lifting heavy objects.

Conclusion

Although the construction industry has a notorious reputation for being dangerous and risky, the majority of construction-related injuries are not fatal and can be prevented with proper safety precautions.Common injuries among construction workers include overexertion, slips, falls, and injuries from moving objects.To avoid these injuries and protect yourself from the dangers of construction, make sure you follow these safety tips: