According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), construction is one of the most dangerous lines of work due to its high accident rate. All construction employers should do everything they can to keep their employees safe at work to help prevent the risk of unwanted injuries. Negligence on construction sites can occur when supervisors, employers, or employees fail to adhere to safety rules and standards of care, which results in danger to the workers or the public. There are many types of construction site negligence, some of which include:
- Breach of contract
- Duty of care
- Construction defects and flaws
- Reckless behavior against safety regulations
Most Common Injuries Seen on Construction Sites
Construction site negligence can cause many types of injuries, some of the most common include:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Spinal cord injuries
- Burns
- Amputated limbs
- Broken bones
- Ear or eye injuries resulting in loss of function
- Knee or leg injuries
- Chemical exposure
How to Prevent Construction Site Negligence
When working on construction sites, it's important to take the proper safety precautions to ensure everyone on the site is safe and at little risk of exposure to hazards. Although accidents are not always 100% preventable, it may help to:
- Use the Right Equipment – Using proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is a basic but essential measure to help ensure safety over the construction site. Employees should be adequately trained on the best PPE for their job, how to wear it correctly, and the benefits of use. Some examples of PPE include:
- Gloves
- Helmets
- Goggles
- Face shields
- Fall protection equipment
- Proper Training – Having things like machinery and PPE readily available are not very useful when the people using them aren't properly trained. A basic understanding of equipment and associated safety regulations is essential when ensuring the safety of people on the construction site (even if they are visitors).
- Planning – Planning ahead can also be beneficial when preventing construction site negligence. Employers should also consider how to accomplish tasks best while still implementing the best safety practices.
Contact an Attorney
Here at Funderburg, Sessums & Peterson, PLLC, we have the skill and expertise you want on your side after sustaining work-related injuries. Filing workers' compensation claims isn't always easy, but with the help of one of our trusted attorneys, it can be stress-free. We will take the time to thoroughly evaluate your case and provide you with the best legal counsel for your situation. Let us be your voice.
Contact us today at (601) 514-6544 or visit us online to schedule your free consultation with a member of our team.