- January 9, 2023
- Posted by: Fatos Dervishi, ESQ.
- Category: Construction Accidents, Personal Injury
A construction site’s work environment is inherently dangerous, and accidents can happen at any time. Falls, electrocutions, and equipment breakdowns are three of the most common types of mishaps on construction sites.
A fall is one of the most common types of accidents that can occur on construction sites. Because of their elevated positions, scaffolding and rooftop work can be hazardous to employees. Trenches and excavations pose an additional risk to employees due to the possibility of falls. Employers are responsible for providing appropriate safety equipment, such as harnesses, to their employees and instructing them on how to use the equipment properly.
Being electrocuted is another type of accident that frequently occurs on construction sites. This type of accident is possible whenever employees come into contact with live electrical lines or equipment. Electrocutions can be avoided if businesses keep all electrical equipment in good working order and provide employees with appropriate safety training.
Accidents on construction sites can also be caused by faulty equipment. Accidents of this type are more likely to occur when the machinery is not properly maintained or when the person has not received adequate training on how to operate it. Employers can avoid equipment failures by investing in regular maintenance and providing employees with adequate training in the safe operation of all equipment.
Other dangerous mishaps, such as those involving vehicles, fires, and explosions, can also occur on construction sites. Mishaps like these can happen when cars aren’t serviced on a regular basis or when employees aren’t given enough instruction on how to drive safely. Employers owe it to their employees to ensure that all vehicles are properly maintained and that employees are properly trained on how to drive safely in order to reduce the likelihood of incidents like this occurring.
5 causes of construction site accidents
Construction sites are widely acknowledged to be among the most hazardous places of employment due to the high incidence of accidents in these settings. There is a wide variety of factors that may lead to accidents on construction sites, however, some are more prevalent than others. In this essay, we will go through the five factors that contribute most often to accidents on construction sites.
1) Lack of proper training
One of the leading causes of construction site accidents is a lack of appropriate training for employees. A significant number of construction workers lack the necessary training to operate the machinery and tools they use, which can lead to accidents and injuries. Employers must ensure that their employees are properly trained in the use of all necessary equipment, as well as in safety precautions and emergency response protocols. Accidents on construction sites can occur due to a lack of adequate training in a variety of ways, including the following:
Lack of experience with equipment: Employees who have not received adequate training on the operation of equipment may be unable to use it safely, which may result in accidents. For example, a worker who has not received adequate training in crane operation may not know how to properly secure the weight, resulting in the crane collapsing.
Inability to recognize potential dangers: Construction workers who have not received adequate safety training may be unable to identify and avoid potential hazards on the job site. For example, a worker who has not received adequate training on the hazards of working in trenches may not understand how to properly maintain the trench walls, resulting in the walls collapsing. This endangers the worker’s safety.
Inadequate preparation for emergencies: Employees who have not received the requisite training on emergency procedures run the risk of being unprepared to react acceptably in the event of an emergency. Employees who have not been given enough training in the event of a fire, for instance, may be seriously injured or killed if they try to leave the building without first identifying the nearest exit.
Workers who have not received the appropriate training on safety rules may not be aware of the dangers and safety procedures that are unique to the building site because they have limited awareness of the relevant safety laws.
2) Lack of proper supervision
Lack of appropriate supervision is another frequent contributor to accidents that occur on construction sites. The possibility exists that workers may not have a crystal clear grasp of the duties that are required of them, which might result in confusion and errors. Employers have a responsibility to guarantee sufficient supervision at the building site to ensure that employees are carrying out their responsibilities safely and accurately.
3) Poorly maintained equipment
Construction machinery degrades over time due to the heavy use it receives, increasing the risk that it will malfunction and cause an accident. Employers must ensure that all equipment is regularly maintained, examined, and repaired to reduce the likelihood of employees being injured in an accident. Accidents can occur when equipment is not properly maintained in the following ways:
Mechanical failures: If equipment is not properly maintained, it is more likely to suffer from mechanical problems such as damaged components or leaks. These failures may render the equipment inoperable or dangerous to use, both of which can result in accidents.
Problems with the safety features: The absence of properly functioning safety systems on machineries, such as brakes, guards, and emergency shut-offs, increases the risk of being injured or killed in an accident significantly. When these safety measures are not serviced on a regular basis, they may cease to function properly, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Performance issues: If equipment is not properly maintained, it may not function as effectively as it should, increasing the risk of accidents. For example, if a crane is not properly maintained, it may not be able to carry as much weight as it should, resulting in the structure collapsing.
4) Unsafe working conditions
Construction sites frequently have a variety of hazards, such as falling debris, excavation sites, and heavy machinery. Employers must ensure that their employees are protected from workplace hazards by providing a safe working environment as well as the necessary equipment and training.
5) Fatigue
Construction workers may become exhausted as a result of the long hours they frequently put in. Fatigue can impair a worker’s ability to concentrate, respond, and make decisions, increasing the risk of an accident occurring. Employees should be encouraged to take frequent breaks, and employers should make sure that employees have enough time to relax and recover from their shifts.
How can you prevent construction site accidents from happening?
Construction sites are well-known for being among the most dangerous places to work due to the frequency with which accidents occur. On the other hand, there are precautions that both employers and construction workers can take to reduce the likelihood of an accident occurring.
Proper training
One of the most effective strategies for reducing the number of accidents on construction sites is to ensure that construction employees are well-trained in the use of equipment, safety procedures, and emergency measures. Employers are responsible for providing regular training to their employees as well as ensuring that all safety requirements are understood and followed.
Adequate supervision
It is critical to have enough supervision to ensure that employees carry out their responsibilities safely and correctly. Employers are responsible for ensuring that there is adequate supervision on the construction site and that employees are aware of their obligations as well as the tasks that are expected of them.
Regular maintenance
Having well-maintained equipment is critical for reducing the likelihood of accidents. Employers must ensure that all of their machinery is subjected to routine inspections, maintenance, and repairs in order for it to remain in excellent operating condition.
Safety equipment
Workers should be provided with appropriate safety equipment, such as hard helmets, goggles, and safety harnesses. Furthermore, they should be trained on how to use the equipment properly. Employers are responsible for ensuring that their employees always wear their safety equipment.
Safe working conditions
Employers must ensure that their employees have a safe working environment and the tools and training needed to protect themselves from potential hazards such as falling debris, excavation sites, and heavy machinery.
Encourage workers to report hazards
Employers must encourage employees to disclose any risks or safety concerns they may have. They must also act as quickly as possible to resolve such issues once they have been reported.
Addressing fatigue
Employees should be encouraged to take frequent breaks, and employers should ensure they have enough time to relax and recover from their shifts. To further aid in avoiding exhaustion, employers should consider reducing employees’ working hours wherever possible.
Why Is It Important to Take Precautions on Construction Sites?
Because of the hazardous nature of the work environment, accidents are a constant threat on construction sites. Employers owe it to their employees to provide appropriate safety equipment, train them in its proper use, and ensure that all of the company’s machinery and vehicles are in good working order. Employers can help keep their employees safe and reduce the likelihood of accidents on construction sites by implementing the procedures outlined above.
How Can We Help You?
It is common knowledge that construction sites are among the most dangerous workplaces, and accidents can happen anytime. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured due to a construction site accident, hiring a law firm specializing in construction accidents can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you are awarded the appropriate amount of workers’ compensation benefits for your construction site injuries.
Investigation
Dervishi Law Group can thoroughly investigate what caused the accident and who is legally responsible for it. Our legal team will compile the evidence, which could include police reports and witness testimony. In addition, they will work with specialists to reconstruct the accident and determine how it occurred.
Legal representation
In addition, we will provide you with legal counsel so that you can successfully navigate the legal process and protect your rights. If you enlist our assistance, you will be able to gain an understanding of the rules and regulations that apply to your construction accident case. We will represent your interests in negotiations with the insurance provider or defend you in court.
Maximizing compensation
Furthermore, we will work to increase the amount of money you earn. Our legal team considers all the associated costs when determining a fair settlement for your injury claim. This includes the full cost of medical care, any lost earnings, and compensation for the victim’s agony and suffering. Furthermore, to ensure that you are fairly compensated, we will either negotiate with the insurance company or, if necessary, take the matter to court.
Assistance in getting medical care
Construction accident law firms may also assist injured construction workers in obtaining the medical care they require to recover from their injuries. They will work with your doctor’s office to ensure that you receive the necessary treatment and assist you in obtaining the workers’ compensation benefits to which you are entitled.
No upfront fees
Because we work on a contingency fee basis, you will not be required to make any upfront payments for legal representation from our firm. The law firm will receive a percentage of whatever money is ultimately awarded or settled as payment for their legal services. As a result, New York construction workers will no longer have to worry about coming up with the funds to pay for legal counsel out of their own pockets, which could be a significant benefit.
The Dervishi Law Group P.C. – Your Go-To Workplace Accident Law Firm
No matter what type of workplace accident you were involved in, having a reputable legal firm on your side will give you the best chance of receiving compensation for your injuries. Our experienced construction accident attorneys at the Dervishi Law Group have years of experience assisting New York workers who have suffered serious injuries on the job.
Accidents on construction sites may have consequences for employees that go beyond their physical injuries. Call us right away to speak with our construction accident attorney so that you can begin the process and learn more about your rights. We are committed to ensuring that you or a loved one receives full restitution for the damage, lost wages, and mental anguish suffered.
