3 Common Construction Site Hazards

30By their nature, construction sites are dangerous places to work. Unfinished buildings, trenches, power tools and exposure to outdoor elements all contribute to making construction work one of the most dangerous professions in the United States.
According to the United States Department of Labor, more than 6 million people work at an estimated 250,000 construction sites across the country every day. As a result of the inherent dangers, the injury and fatality rate in the construction industry is high.
Here are three common construction site hazards, as well as tips on how to avoid them:

Heights

According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration, falls are a common construction site hazard. They typically make up the highest number of fatalities in the industry each year, and there are various factors that can influence a serious fall.
OSHA recommends using standard elevated platforms or aerial lifts when working at a height. Guardrail systems with integrated toe boards can also protect workers who are operating close to the edges of roofs and floors. Body harnesses and safety nets can also save lives and prevent serious fall injuries.

Scaffolding

Scaffolding is generally safe and is an important aspect of a construction site, but if workers do not install it correctly, it can be a considerable hazard. More than 2 million workers operate on scaffolding on a frequent basis, and as many as 4,500 workers suffer injuries because of them every year.
To avoid scaffolding injuries and problems, experienced workers must install it on solid ground, and it must be solid enough to carry four times the maximum intended load at any one time. Avoid storing unstable objects like boxes and tool-kits on scaffolding, and install guardrails and toe boards.

Ladders

Like scaffolding, ladders are a common cause of injuries on construction sites, and OSHA estimates that nearly 25,000 people in the United States sustain injuries on ladders each year. It is important that you use the correct ladder for the task at hand and that the ladder is free from defects or damage.
Inspect the ladder before climbing it to ensure that there is no grease or dirt that could cause you to slip. Use ladders only as directed; never overload one, and make sure that it is long enough to reach the required area without forcing the user to reach.
At Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, our attorneys have a unique advantage when it comes to construction injuries and accidents. Attorney Jay Luchsinger was an ironworker for many years before becoming a lawyer and has a deep understanding of job-site safety and practices. Unique backgrounds like Jay’s have helped the lead trial team at Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates secure many record-setting jury verdicts on behalf of Illinois workers from a variety of trades.
Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates invites you for a free telephone or in person consultation with a Chicago construction accident attorney to discuss your injury and any questions you may have. You can also email us or even speak with us right now on LiveChat, located in the lower right corner of the screen. Even if you do not wish to retain an attorney, we can set you on the right path for free. Most of our lawyers have more than 30 years of experience and we have an outstanding track record in helping our clients and creating a strong trust relationship, as you can see in our Success Record. Please call our Chicago office at (312) 372-8822, or our Joliet office at (815) 723-8822, or you can call our toll free number at (800)-985-1819.