Working in construction may not have been your dream job, but it is work you enjoy and helps you pay the bills. Of course, you would likely not want to put your life in unnecessary danger for your job, but you know that the construction industry is one of the most dangerous. As a result, you want to do your best to remain aware and safe on any construction site.
Whether you are a veteran construction worker or have only recently entered the field. Understanding the top dangers on any site could prove useful. In particular, you may want to remember that falls are the leading cause of construction-related fatalities. How can you help yourself stay safe?
Common falls risks
Unfortunately, falls happen far too often on construction sites. Various issues can present fall hazards, and commonly, these issues could be preventable if employers and employees alike take the time to assess their work areas to watch out for hazards. Some problems to keep an eye out for include the following:
- Ladder use: Many people may not think of using a ladder as something that requires training, but construction workers can end up on ladders at significant heights during the course of their duties. If a worker does not properly use a ladder, a fall could easily take place.
- Scaffolding use: Scaffolding often takes the place of ladders when construction work takes place outside of buildings at considerable height. However, it is important that those who put up the scaffolding do so correctly; otherwise, a collapse could occur.
- Fall protection use: Employers should ensure that workers have fall protection equipment when working at heights, and employees should make sure to use that equipment and use it properly. Not using such protection could prove fatal should an accident occur.
In efforts to prevent falls, various factors should go into consideration. The height of the work, the weight that a scaffolding or ladder can hold, the position of safety features and much more could help prevent serious accidents and injuries when properly accounted for.
What if you suffer injuries?
Unfortunately, any oversight when working at a height could lead to a fall that has severe repercussions. If you end up injured due to a fall on a Brooklyn construction site, you will likely face numerous setbacks. In particular, you may need help making ends meet financially and covering medical bills as you recover from the incident. Fortunately, workers’ compensation may be able to help. Because you likely will not want to handle paperwork associated with workers’ comp while you recover, you may want to enlist the help of an attorney.