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Common causes of construction site injuries

On Behalf of | Sep 27, 2019 | Injuries |

Working in the construction industry can be extremely rewarding. It can also be extremely dangerous.

Even if you and your company are doing everything possible to protect against accidents, it’s still possible to suffer an injury at some point.

Understanding the most common causes of construction site injuries can help keep you safe. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Falls: It doesn’t matter if you slip and fall on the ground or fall from height, it can result in serious injury or even death.
  • Falling objects: When working at height, there’s always a possibility that an object will fall to the ground below. If you’re on the ground, keep this in mind at all times. Also, wear a hard hat to protect against a head injury.
  • Equipment accidents: From bulldozers to forklifts, from nail guns to power tools, equipment accidents are common on construction sites. Protecting against equipment-related accidents starts with following the manufacturer’s instructions and receiving the necessary training.
  • Vehicle accidents: Maybe you’re staffed with the responsibility of driving a company vehicle or piece of construction equipment. Or maybe you simply work in close proximity to moving vehicles. Either way, vehicle accidents, such as a back over or crush-between, are among the most serious.
  • Repetitive motion injury: Over time, a repetitive motion injury could make it difficult to do your job. For example, if you lift heavy items day in and day out, your shoulders, wrists, elbows and knees are at risk of injury. These injuries don’t occur suddenly, but instead set in over the course of several months or years.

If you’re injured in a construction site accident, stop what you’re doing to assess your health and administer first aid. This is also the right time to call 911 for assistance and report the accident to your employer.

Once you receive initial treatment for your injury, your medical team can help implement a recovery strategy. If this entails taking time away from work, file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits.

Since it’s possible to receive a workers’ compensation denial, pay close attention to everything that’s happening with your claim until you receive your first payment.