Why Do Construction Workers Get Injured On the Job So Often?

There is no single profession that suffers more on the job injuries and fatalities than construction workers. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has estimated that around one in every ten construction workers suffers from some kind of workplace-related illness or injury every year. But what is it about the construction industry that is so dangerous for its workers, and what should you do if you get injured on the job?

Why is Construction So Dangerous?

The construction industry is dangerous, in no small part, to the fact that the industry itself involves working in incredibly dangerous conditions. Construction workers, in particular, are especially vulnerable to falling injuries due to needing to work from scaffolds and other elevated platforms, and often work with equipment that can easily inflict serious injuries. In addition, they often work with hazardous materials and chemicals that can sicken or injure them if they are exposed to them without adequate protection.

How Do People Get Injured on Construction Sites?

Falling accidents are, by far, the most common type of injury that construction workers face on the job. However, they also face risks from falling objects, construction vehicles, and even regular vehicles that may hit them while they are working, as well as dangers from being caught in cave-ins during trenching or demolition work. They are also often put at risk of electrocution due to working around high voltage lines and power tools, which can injure anyone who accidentally makes contact with them while they are in use.

How Do Contractors and Site Owners Make it Worse?

    While all of these hazards are dangerous, many of them can be mitigated with adequate protection and training. In addition, inspections are important for ensuring hazards on the site are properly identified and signposted, as well as for ensuring all equipment is working properly. Negligent contractors and construction site owners can get lax with these safety requirements, however, putting workers at risk.

What Should You Do?

If you are a construction worker and you are injured on the job due to the negligence of your employer or a site owner, you may have the ability to seek compensation against them. However, to know what options you have available to you, you should speak to a lawyer with experience handling construction accidents. They can advise you on your best course of action, and work with you to create a legal strategy that best serves your needs.

For more than 40 years, the Drucker Law Firm has been providing personal and quality legal services to individuals, universities, and corporations throughout the New York City and Tri-State area. We have represented three generations of clients in personal injury cases, as well as immigration and general litigation matters. If you have a legal issue related to personal injury law, please give us a call at (718) 458-1489 to schedule a consultation or visit our contact page.