The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has singled out four leading causes of fatal accidents in the construction industry. 

These factors, also referred to as the “Fatal Four” hazards, are electrocution, falls, being caught in or between objects, and being struck by objects.

 

What Are the Most Affected Job Types?

According to statistics, 4,764 fatal work injuries were reported in 2020. Some of the occupations that are most at risk for the “Fatal Four” hazards include:

  • Electrical workers
  • Construction workers
  • Painters
  • Construction equipment operators
  • Carpenters
  • Pipelayers and plumbers
  • Structural and steel workers
  • Highway maintenance workers

Reports by OSHA have revealed that 275 workers died of work-related injuries in Florida. Of these cases, the most significant percentage of fatalities were caused by the “Fatal Four” hazards. 

Seventy-seven of the casualties died from slip and fall accidents; forty-three succumbed to harmful substances such as electrocution, and twenty-five died from contact with specific equipment and objects. 

Let’s have a closer look at these four hazards: 

 

Falls

Falls are one of the major causes of work-related fatalities in the construction industry. In most cases, fall injuries and deaths in construction mainly occur due to a lack of fall-protection systems, poor quality ladders, and improper scaffolding.

To keep construction-workers safe in the line of duty, OSHA insists that construction sites have fall-protection mechanisms, including safety nets and guardrails. 

Unfortunately, many construction sites fail to apply this requirement, which often results in injuries and deaths of construction workers.

 

Electrocutions

These accidents typically occur due to improper use of extension cords and direct contact with overhead powerlines and other energized sources. 

De-energizing construction sites and maintaining a safe distance from powerlines are effective when it comes to mitigating the risk of electrocution. But unfortunately, many work sites often fail to take these safety precautions. 

 

Being Struck by Objects

Construction workers often suffer severe injuries when struck by falling tools, airborne objects, or rolling and swinging objects. 

Employers should provide protective work equipment and mandatory safety training to keep their workers safe. 

In addition, they need to conduct frequent and rigorous safety checks to ensure tools and equipment are in good condition and barriers are firmly in place to prevent workers from wandering into hazardous sites. 

 

Being Caught in or Between Objects

Being caught in or between objects can be more dangerous than being struck by objects since victims risk being crushed by workplace machinery and equipment. 

Machines must be switched off during repair and maintenance to mitigate such risks. Employers should also provide regular safety training to their workers to keep them from inadvertently getting injured in such accidents. 

 

Consult an Experienced Attorney 

If these common job site accidents have injured you or a loved one, you must speak to a qualified personal injury attorney as soon as possible. 

You only have a four-year window period to file a personal injury claim, so the earlier you start the process, the greater your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.