Construction sites are some of the riskiest workplaces, with workers facing hazards on a daily basis. Despite the strict implementation of safety procedures, there are deaths on construction sites due to numerous reasons. If you or your loved one was the victim of a construction accident, you can employ the services of an construction accident lawyer who is a specialist to navigate through the complexities and receive sufficient compensation.
Key Causes Of Death on a Construction Site
1. Height Falls
Falls remain the biggest killer on job sites. Labourers will be working on roofs, scaffolds, or ladders where inadequate fall protection equals death. Substandard guardrails, uneven ground, and safety harnesses’ absence create an extremely hazardous condition. Employers must prioritise preventing falls by investing in the appropriate safety equipment and strict protocols.
2. Struck-By An Accidents
Struck by objects, including heavy plant, dropped tools or equipment, and vehicles, is a leading cause of death on site. Cranes, forklifts, and mobile plant of other descriptions are lethal unless operated safely under supervision. Safety can prevent these fatalities from occurring through the wearing of high-visibility vests, tying material down so that it does not move, and rigorous site traffic control.
3. By Electrocutions
Physical contact with electric equipment, wiring, and power cables is common in construction. Electrocution is deadly when workers touch live wires or defective equipment. This type of accident happens through poor grounding, inadequate training, and inability to recognise power sources. Adequate electrical safety training and adherence to safety codes can prevent such an accident.
4. Caught-In or Caught-Between Situation Accidents
These are kinds of injuries that occur when workers become trapped in between falling objects, trench walls, or heavy equipment. Loose building materials, exposed equipment, and excavation can lead to fatal or serious injury. Trench support, protection barrier installation, and employee training on the identification of the hazards can be effective preventive measures against caught-in accidents.
5. Structural Collapses of Buildings
Structural collapse from flawed designs, poor materials, or improper methods of construction can lead to catastrophic loss of human life. Construction workers trapped in rubble or within buildings that are collapsing have barely a chance of survival. Building preconstruction inspections for code compliance with engineering codes and material inspections can avoid these catastrophes.
6. Exposure to Hazardous Materials
Construction workers are exposed to toxic materials, harmful chemicals, and asbestos. Long-term exposure causes diseases such as respiratory ailments and cancer. Without proper protective equipment and ventilation, the staff is highly susceptible to such effects. It is the employers’ duty to adopt personal protective equipment (PPE) and personnel education in order to handle hazardous substances in a safe manner.
Wrapping Up
Fatal accidents on construction sites can be avoided by adequate safety measures, training, and compliance with policies. The companies and employees have to exercise caution to avoid accidents and ensure a safe working environment. Technically speaking, if you or your beloved one has been victimised by a fatal construction site accident, hiring the services of an attorney dealing with construction accidents might provide the legal assistance necessary to make claims for justice and compensation.
