Construction is an inherently dangerous occupation, but that doesn’t mean that every precaution to protect workers shouldn’t be taken. Construction injuries can occur due to a number of situations, but there are three main causes that explain why construction accidents happen. Let’s take a closer look at these leading causes.
Failure to Identify Unsafe Conditions
The first step in any construction project should be to identify unsafe conditions. This needs to be an ongoing practice, and every person on a construction site should be involved. Identifying unsafe working conditions before work begins or while work is ongoing can allow workers to take additional precautions to prevent accidents. These precautions can range from wearing Personal Fall Protection gear to shoring up the sides of trenches more securely, and everything else in between. If you see an unsafe condition on the job, make your supervisors aware of it.
Continuing to Work with Unsafe Conditions
If an unsafe condition has been recognized, it should be corrected before work is permitted to continue. Failing to correct a safety hazard before moving the project forward can be a deadly mistake. Supervisors are responsible for ensuring the safety of the site and taking steps to protect workers before allowing work to continue. Workers need to be vigilant about safety hazards and ensure that their supervisors are aware of the issue as well—especially if no precautions are being taken.
Failure to Follow Safety Rules & Procedures
All safety rules and procedures are in place for a reason—to protect those working on construction sites. If you are required to wear personal safety gear, work in teams, use equipment in certain ways or perform inspections of equipment or the site, the chances are that these procedures are meant to increase your safety and the safety of others. Always follow these regulations, for your own safety and the safety of your coworkers.
Safety on construction sites should be taken seriously. Accidents are frequently preventable. If you’ve been injured while working on a construction site or as a passerby, you may be able to receive compensation. As a worker, you may be covered by workers’ compensation, but if there was negligence involved, it may be possible to pursue a personal injury claim.
At Belushin Law Firm, P.C., we’re passionate about helping injured people protect their rights. Our experienced team of Brooklyn personal injury attorneys is deeply knowledgeable about construction accidents. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case with our legal team today, and discover your options.
Contact our firm to get started. Call (888) 918-9890 now!