The “Fatal Four” Construction Injuries
Construction sites are inherently dangerous, with workers facing potential hazards daily. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified the "Fatal Four"—four types of accidents responsible for more than half of all construction worker fatalities:
1. Falling
Falls account for the highest number of deaths in construction. There are two primary types: falls from heights and slips, trips or falls on the same level. A study of falls from 1992 to 2005 found that 33% of fatal falls occurred from roofs, 18% from scaffolding, and 16% from ladders. Slips and trips are among the most common causes of non-fatal injuries. Employers can help prevent falls with guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems. Scaffolding and ladders should be properly secured and inspected regularly. Maintaining clear and tidy work areas can help reduce the likelihood of slips and trips.
2. Being Struck
Being struck — whether by falling tools, swinging equipment, or moving vehicles — is a leading cause of injuries and fatalities. Improperly stacked materials and suspended loads can contribute to the likelihood of these accidents. Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hard hats and safety glasses, is the first line of defense. In addition, staying alert to moving equipment and maintaining safe distances from active machinery is essential to avoiding injury.
3. Electrocution
Electrical hazards can lead to severe injuries or even death. While burns are the most common shock-related injury, electrocution can also cause nerve damage, muscular contractions, and cardiac arrest. These injuries often result from unsafe equipment, poor installation, hazardous environments, or improper work practices. Employers should ensure all electrical equipment is well-maintained. PPE should include insulating protective equipment. Workers must also follow lockout/tagout procedures before servicing electrical equipment and avoid working near power lines and ensure proper grounding and circuit protection.
4. Becoming Trapped
Construction sites often involve heavy machinery, trenches, and equipment that pose a risk of trapping workers. A single misstep or shift in attention could cause you to be caught, crushed, squeezed, or pinched with life-altering consequences. Workers should stay aware of surroundings and avoid working in pinch points. They should use proper machine guards and safety devices and ensure trenches are properly protected with shoring or trench boxes. Never wear jewelry, gloves, or loose clothing around moving parts.
Even with safety equipment or outlined procedures, if someone else on a job site is negligent, or machine is faulty, you can be hurt. If you think your injury came from a misstep by your employer, another vendor, or a defective product, contact a top Philadelphia construction injury law firm to help you present the best case possible.