Common Causes of Construction Site Accidents & Injuries

Construction sites are dynamic environments where safety should always be the top priority. However, accidents can and do happen, often with serious consequences. Experienced attorneys specializing in construction site accidents have seen firsthand the devastating impact these incidents can have on workers and their families. This blog will explore the common causes of construction site accidents and injuries and provide expert legal advice from the experienced team of construction accident lawyers at Mazie Slater on how to navigate the aftermath.

OSHA’s “Fatal Four” refers to the four leading causes of fatalities in the construction industry: falls, struck-by accidents, electrocutions, and caught-in or between injuries. These four types of accidents consistently account for the majority (around 60%) of construction worker deaths each year. OSHA emphasizes these hazards to raise awareness and encourage preventative measures be taken to ensure worker safety.

Construction sites, particularly in urban environments, frequently feature tall structures and elevated work areas. As a result, falls have become the leading cause of fatal injuries in the construction industry. 

These accidents typically involve:

According to OSHA, falls alone accounted for 35% of fatalities on construction sites. The nature of construction work often requires employees to operate at significant heights on precarious structures such as ladders, scaffolding, and roofs. When workers are not provided with adequate safety equipment, proper fall protection, or sufficient training, they face a high risk of falling from these structures. Such falls almost invariably result in severe consequences, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or even death.

Struck-by incidents are the second leading cause of death among construction workers, after falls, and account for approximately 17% of all construction deaths. These incidents occur when the force of an object causes injury to a worker. Struck-by injuries encompass a range of scenarios, including:

These types of accidents can result from various circumstances, such as improperly secured materials, equipment malfunctions, or inadequate safety measures. The severity of struck-by injuries can vary widely, from minor bruises to fatal trauma, depending on the size, weight, and velocity of the object involved. Proper safety protocols, including the use of hard hats, establishing secure work zones, and implementing robust material handling procedures, are crucial in mitigating the risk of struck-by incidents on construction sites.

According to OSHA, electrocution accounts for approximately 8% of annual construction fatalities. In fact, construction workers are about four times more likely to be electrocuted compared to workers in other industries. Contact with these hazards can lead to electrocution, resulting in burns, shock, explosions, and fatalities.

The most frequent causes of electrical accidents in construction include:

To mitigate these risks, construction sites must implement strict safety protocols, including proper training, the use of protective equipment, and regular inspections of electrical systems and tools. Adhering to OSHA regulations and industry best practices is crucial for preventing electrical accidents and protecting workers’ lives.

The fourth leading cause of construction accidents and injuries is known as “caught-in/between” incidents. These hazardous situations occur when a worker’s body or body part becomes trapped, crushed, or compressed between two or more objects. Caught-in/between accidents can manifest in various ways on construction sites:

These incidents often result in severe injuries, including amputations, crushing injuries, and in some cases, fatalities. Prevention of caught-in/between accidents requires strict adherence to safety protocols, proper training in equipment operation, use of appropriate personal protective equipment, and implementation of effective machine guarding systems. Regular site inspections and risk assessments are also crucial in identifying and mitigating potential caught-in/between hazards on construction sites.

Equipment malfunction mishaps can transform routine tasks into dangerous scenarios in the blink of an eye. While heavy machinery and power tools are essential for construction work, they also introduce a host of potential risks when not properly maintained or operated. 

Accidents can occur due to:

Regular and thorough maintenance schedules, comprehensive training programs, and stringent quality control measures for tools and equipment are not just best practices—they’re essential safeguards for worker safety and project success. 

Construction workers may be exposed to harmful substances that can cause acute and chronic conditions such as:

Asbestos

Lead

Toxic Chemicals

Silica Dust

Mold

By addressing these factors and implementing robust safety measures, construction companies can significantly reduce the risks associated with hazardous substance exposure. This not only protects workers’ health but also ensures compliance with regulations and promotes a safer, more productive work environment.

Construction sites frequently rely on heavy machinery, including forklifts and various vehicles, to perform essential tasks. However, these powerful tools can pose significant risks if not managed properly. Two critical factors contribute to potential dangers:

When either of these aspects is neglected, it puts everyone on the job site at risk. These incidents can take various forms, such as:

The consequences of such incidents can be severe, ranging from minor injuries to fatalities. To mitigate these risks, construction companies must prioritize regular equipment maintenance, comprehensive operator training, and strict adherence to safety protocols. By doing so, they can significantly reduce the occurrence of vehicle-related accidents and create a safer working environment for all personnel on-site.

If you’re involved in a construction site accident:

By taking these steps promptly, you can protect your health, legal rights, and ability to receive fair compensation for a construction site injury. The key is to act quickly, document thoroughly, and seek appropriate medical and legal guidance throughout the process.

If you or a loved one has experienced a construction site-related injury, having an experienced construction accident attorney on your side can make a significant difference. They will help:

Given the complexity of construction accident cases and the potentially severe consequences for victims, professional legal representation is not just beneficial but often essential for ensuring fair treatment and adequate compensation.

Depending on the circumstances, injured workers may have several legal avenues to receive financial compensation for their injuries:

Victims of construction accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation:

It is important to seek legal representation to properly navigate the complexities of potential compensation in construction accident cases. 

Construction site accidents can have life-altering consequences. Understanding the common causes, knowing your legal rights, and taking prompt action are crucial steps in protecting yourself and your future. Remember, workplace safety is everyone’s responsibility, but when accidents do occur, it’s important to have strong legal representation to ensure your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction site accident, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice from the attorneys at Mazie Slater. Schedule a free consultation today to meet with our team of experienced construction site injury attorneys who will guide you through the process, fight for your rights, and help you focus on what’s most important – your recovery.