Why do construction accidents occur?
Construction sites have a lot of moving parts and people, many of whom are operating large machines and power tools. There can be ditches and scaffolding, making walkways uneven and treacherous to workers and passers-by. Some of the more common causes of construction site accidents include: Vehicle accidents. Construction workers work with trucks, bulldozers, and other vehicles than can collide with a car or a person causing death or injury. Slips and falls. Many workers fall due to uneven surfaces, tools or equipment on the ground, wet surfaces, and other causes Falls from heights. Workers who fall from scaffold, roofs, and ladders are likely to die or suffer catastrophic injuries. Forklift accidents. Misuse of forklifts can cause injuries to the operators and anyone near these devices. Cranes and hoists. Operators should have proper training. The devices should be operated carefully so they don’t strike anyone. Gas leaks, explosions, and fires. These accidents can cause death, second and third-degree burns, and other severe injuries. Repetitive stress injuries. Many workers who use the same tools and equipment such as jackhammers can suffer injuries to their wrists, back, neck, shoulder, and joints. Trench collapses. Construction workers can be stuck causing severe injuries. Electrical accidents. Many workers use tools and equipment that rely on overhead wires, generators, and other electrical sources which may be faulty. Machinery accidents. Construction work requires workers to use all types of heavy machinery that creates numerous risks of injury. Chemical exposures. Deadly or sever exposures can be due to just breathing in the chemicals or due to exposure of the skin to hazardous toxins. Other construction accidents include elevator shaft accidents, being pinned by an object or person, or being crushed.