Construction labor jobs are often dangerous and, in some cases, accidents lead to fatalities. The United States Department of Labor notes that in 2018, more than 5,000 construction workers lost their lives on the job due to a variety of incidents involving tools, machinery and falls.
If you work in the construction sector and have concerns about your safety, remaining aware of what might cause these fatal accidents may help you avoid them.
Falls
When you work at sites that feature the construction of tall buildings, the risk of dying as the result of a fall may increase. You may lose your balance over trip over building materials or tools left behind by your coworkers. The risk of falls from ladders or scaffolding are ever-present.
Electrocution
Wiring and tools that require electricity to run can increase the risk of electrocution as you work at any construction job site. Ungrounded circuits and using the incorrect voltage may both result in an electrocution death.
Crushing deaths
Construction sites often require the use of large vehicles such as forklifts, large trucks and motorized machinery that moves large pallets of building materials from place to place. These types of machines can pin or crush you against stationary objects and cause deadly blunt force trauma. Remaining aware of your surroundings while on any construction site may help keep you safe.
Workers can take precautions to keep themselves safe, but sometimes worksite conditions themselves are unsafe, and employers or third parties may bear liability for injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured on a construction site, it is important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney.
