On-the-job accidents can theoretically occur in any workplace. However, there are some work environments where accidents are more common than others.
For example, statistics indicate that construction workers are more likely to be injured as a result of their employment than workers in most other fields. Basic ways to prevent construction workers from being injured include:
Additional steps construction workers and their employers can take to guard against accidents at construction sites include:
Construction teams shouldn’t assume the safety equipment they rely on is in good condition. Defects, lack of proper maintenance, and other such easy-to-overlook details and factors can prevent safety equipment from protecting workers as it’s intended to. It is therefore wise to regularly inspect safety equipment before it is to be used.
Construction crews often go to such significant lengths to prevent accidents that can cause major injuries (such as falls from heights, which can result in traumatic brain injury or paralysis) that they understandably forget to take steps to prevent the types of accidents which can occur anywhere, such as slip and fall accidents.
A slip and fall can easily occur at a construction site if a worker trips over a piece of debris or slips on a hazardous substance. Construction teams can minimize the chances of this happening by thoroughly cleaning up a site at the end of a work day.
Some employees are reluctant to speak up when they notice their coworkers or supervisors might be disregarding safety regulations or otherwise behave in a manner that can result in an accident.
This is understandable. No one wants to be thought of as a team member who will “tell on” others.
However, when unsafe practices are consistently reported, employees are safer in the long run. This is why construction crew supervisors and construction company owners should encourage reporting. They might even establish a system that allows employees to report unsafe practices and conditions anonymously.
All that said, while applying these suggestions can reduce the odds of an accident occurring at a construction site, there is no way to completely guarantee accidents won’t happen.
Are you a construction worker in California? Have you recently been injured in an on-the-job accident? If so, you can seek compensation for losses like your medical bills and lost wages by filing a claim to recover workers’ compensation benefits.
Be aware that an insurance company may try to deny your claim or convince you to settle for less than you are owed in an attempt to save money. To optimize your chances of recovering benefits, enlist the help of a legal professional who handles cases like yours.
At Law Offices Of Kropach & Kropach, serving injured construction workers in Encino, Santa Clarita, Van Nuys, Los Angeles, and North Hollywood, you’ll find a workers’ compensation attorney dedicated to helping you secure what you deserve. Learn more about how we can help by contacting us online or calling us at 818-609-7005.
