Construction work is one of the most hazardous jobs in the United States, and New Jersey is no exception. Every year, thousands of workers face injuries and tragically, some lose their lives while on the job. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the construction industry consistently ranks among the top for workplace fatalities. Understanding the primary causes of these incidents and how to prevent them is crucial for ensuring worker safety.
Common Causes of Construction Site Injuries and Deaths
Construction sites are rife with potential hazards. Here are the primary causes of injuries and fatalities on these job sites:
1. Falls
Falls are the leading cause of construction-related deaths, accounting for nearly 36% of all fatal injuries in the industry. This often results from inadequate fall protection, such as missing guardrails or malfunctioning harnesses. Workers on projects like high-rises, bridges, and scaffolding face especially significant risks in New Jersey's booming development areas.
2. Struck-By Accidents
Struck-by incidents involve a worker being hit by moving objects like cranes, vehicles, falling tools, or construction materials. Heavy equipment and falling debris are constant threats on busy New Jersey construction sites, making struck-by accidents one of OSHA’s “Fatal Four” most common causes of fatal workplace injuries.
3. Electrocutions
Electrocution is another major hazard, accounting for about 8% of construction site worker deaths nationwide. Improperly installed or exposed electrical systems, overhead power lines, and faulty tools often contribute to electrocution incidents.
4. Caught-In or Caught-Between Accidents
These accidents happen when a worker is pinned between heavy equipment, machinery, or collapsing structures. The prevalent foundation works and trench construction in New Jersey pose high risks for such incidents.
5. Equipment-Related Accidents
Improperly maintained or operated machinery, such as cranes, forklifts, or power tools, can lead to severe injuries. When equipment malfunctions or is used without adequate training, the results can be devastating.
6. Unsafe Working Conditions
Hazards like slippery surfaces, poor lighting, and inadequate protective gear create significant risks. Extreme weather conditions, common in New Jersey, such as icy winters and scorching summers, further exacerbate unsafe working conditions.
Safety Measures to Prevent Construction Site Accidents
Preventing construction site injuries and deaths requires a commitment from employers and workers to safety. Here are some key safety measures:
- Proper Training
Employers should provide ongoing safety training to workers. This includes educating them about site-specific hazards, the correct use of tools, and emergency procedures.
- Utilizing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Workers should always wear PPE, such as hard hats, gloves, high-visibility vests, safety glasses, and fall harnesses, to minimize injury risks.
- Fall Protection Systems
Installing guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems is critical for reducing fall-related injuries. Employers must also ensure that scaffolding is properly assembled and inspected.
- Regular Equipment Inspections
All construction machinery and tools should be routinely inspected and maintained to ensure they function correctly and safely.
- Clear Communication
Workers should use radios, hand signals, and clear instructions to ensure seamless communication, particularly when working near heavy machinery or hazardous areas.
- Site Inspections
Regular inspections by qualified safety officers can help identify and address potential hazards before they result in accidents.
Legal Responsibilities and Implications in New Jersey
Both employers and employees have legal obligations to maintain workplace safety. For New Jersey employers, OSHA regulations require creating a safe working environment. Failing to comply can lead to hefty fines, lawsuits, and even criminal charges in severe cases.
Workers in New Jersey who suffer injuries on construction sites are often eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits cover medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. However, workers may also pursue personal injury claims for additional damages if the injury results from an employer’s negligence or a third party’s actions. Families of workers who die in construction accidents may be entitled to file wrongful death lawsuits to seek compensation for financial and emotional losses.
How Workers and Employers Can Partner for a Safer Future
Construction safety is a shared responsibility. Employers must prioritize safety protocols and be proactive in eliminating hazards. Workers, in turn, should remain vigilant, report unsafe conditions, and never cut corners when it comes to their own well-being.
New Jersey Workers' Compensation Attorneys
At Levinson Axelrod, P.A., we understand the complexities and challenges faced by construction industry professionals in ensuring safety on site. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing legal support and guidance to help you navigate the legal landscape and protect your business and workers. If you are in Brick, NJ, and need assistance with construction site safety and legal matters, please contact us today at (732) 440-3089 to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve your safety goals.