The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified the “Fatal Four” as the leading causes of construction worker fatalities in the United States. These four hazards are responsible for more than half of all construction worker deaths each year, making them a priority for OSHA to address and prevent. The Fatal Four are:
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Falls
Falls are the leading cause of construction worker fatalities, accounting for over a third of all deaths. OSHA requires that employers provide fall protection for workers on elevated surfaces, such as scaffolds, ladders, and roofs. Employers must also ensure that fall protection systems are properly used and maintained, and that workers are trained on the proper use of fall protection equipment.
Struck-by hazards
Being struck by an object or vehicle is the second leading cause of construction worker fatalities. OSHA requires that employers take steps to protect workers from being struck by vehicles, equipment, and other objects on the job site. This includes properly marking and lighting construction zones, implementing traffic controls, and providing training on safe work practices.
Electrocutions
Electrocutions are the third leading cause of construction worker fatalities. OSHA requires that employers take steps to protect workers from electrical hazards, including ensuring that electrical equipment is properly grounded, installing electrical safety devices, and providing training on the proper use of electrical equipment.
Caught-in or -between hazards
Being caught in or between equipment or structures is the fourth leading cause of construction worker fatalities. OSHA requires that employers take steps to protect workers from being caught in or between equipment or structures, such as providing guards or barriers, implementing lockout/tagout procedures, and providing training on safe work practices.
Employers have a legal responsibility to provide a safe working environment for their employees, and failure to do so can result in penalties, fines, and even criminal charges.
Guarding Against Fatal Four Accidents
Preventing these Fatal Four hazards is crucial for the safety of construction workers. OSHA has developed a number of resources and guidelines to help employers understand and comply with the regulations, as well as outreach and education programs to raise awareness about these hazards. Employers have a legal responsibility to provide a safe working environment for their employees, and failure to do so can result in penalties, fines, and even criminal charges.
Workers should also be aware of the Fatal Four hazards and know what to do to protect themselves and their coworkers on the job site. They should be trained on the proper use of equipment and the importance of following safety procedures, and should report any hazards or unsafe practices to their employer.
Steps to Take if You’re’ Involved in a Construction Accident
If you are injured in a construction site accident, there are several steps that you should take to protect your legal rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve:
Seek medical attention: The most important thing to do if you are injured is to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is important to have them evaluated by a medical professional to ensure that you receive the appropriate treatment and to document your injuries.
Report the accident: Report the accident to your employer as soon as possible. This will ensure that the incident is documented and that the necessary steps are taken to prevent similar accidents from happening in the future.
Gather evidence: If possible, gather evidence of the accident and your injuries. This may include taking photographs of the accident scene, obtaining witness statements, and keeping a record of any medical treatment you receive.
Consult with an attorney: If you have been injured in a construction site accident, it is important to consult with an attorney who is experienced in handling construction site accident cases. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options, and can work to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
File a claim: File a claim with the workers’ compensation system, or if the accident was caused by a third party, file a personal injury claim. Your attorney can help you understand which claim is appropriate for your case, and can assist you in filing the claim.
Keep records: Keep records of any expenses you incur as a result of the accident, including medical bills, lost wages, and any other out-of-pocket expenses. These records will be important when calculating the amount of compensation you are entitled to.
Follow your doctor’s instructions: Follow your doctor’s instructions for treatment and rehabilitation. This will help you recover from your injuries as quickly as possible and will also document your treatment for your claim.
Contact a Boston Construction Site Accident Attorney
Help is available if you’ve been injured at a construction site. At Swartz & Swartz, P.C., our Boston construction site lawyers are prepared to offer the representation you deserve in these circumstances. Learn more about how we can help by contacting us online or calling us at (617) 742-1900.
Need Help?
If you or someone you know, needs help from a lawyer, contact the law offices of Swartz & Swartz, use our live chat, or send us a message using the form below and we’ll get in touch to assess your case and how we can help.
About the Author: Nolan Sloan
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