Construction sites are known for being among the most dangerous work environments. Even if you’ve remained safe your entire career, you never know what the day ahead will bring. And that’s why your safety and well-being should take priority over everything else.
Understanding the most common types of construction site accidents can help you prevent trouble. Here are several to protect against:
- Fall from height: This typically occurs when working on a roof, ladder or scaffolding. When working at height, use all the safety equipment available to protect yourself against a fall.
- Forklift accident: Forklifts are commonly used on construction sites, as they help move heavy items from one location to another. However, they’re also known for causing trouble, such as if they drop a load or strike a worker.
- Power tool accident: Power tools are meant to make a job easier, but while doing so they’re also a safety hazard. Before using any type of tool, be sure that you take the proper safety precautions.
- Slip and fall: Even if you’re not working at height, a slip and fall can still cause serious injury. For example, if you trip over a power cord, you could strike your head against an object on your way to the ground. This can result in a traumatic brain injury or concussion.
- Lifting accidents: You may be responsible for lifting heavy objects, which puts a lot of strain on your body. This can lead to injuries such as sprained muscles, ligament tears and herniated discs.
With so many dangers lurking, you must think twice about everything you do. This will help you prevent an accident and the injuries often associated with it.
If you suffer an injury at work, report it to your supervisor and make sure you receive a professional diagnosis. Now isn’t the time to treat yourself at home, even if you think your injury is minor.
Depending on what your doctor finds, you may not be able to immediately return to work. This can affect you financially, so it’s a good time to consider the steps you must take to file a workers’ compensation claim.
