OSHA Offices Focusing on Preventing Construction Hazards

OSHA of the Philadelphia Region and Mid-Atlantic Construction Safety Council got together to create a better focus on preventing falls and other construction hazards. They’ve initiated something known as the “Focus Four Hazards” campaign, which was launched all the way back in February and concludes this month (May 2017). The goal? To raise awareness in the majority of injuries and fatalities that occur in the construction workplace, known as falls, struck-by incidents, electrocutions, and caught-between hazards. This outreach is known to have a positive effect on many employers and workers, showing them how to recognize hazards, evaluate them, and so much more.

Why is the Construction Workplace Dangerous? 

Working in construction can sometimes be an inherently dangerous job because of the hazards that are present. Construction consists of many aspects like residential construction, bridge erection, roadway paving, excavations, demolitions, and more. Because of this, workers can be exposed to a wide variety of hazards. Some of the most serious hazards can include falling from rooftops, unguarded machinery, and struck by heavy equipment.

By gaining a better understanding of how we can prevent these injuries in the workplace, employers and employees can work together to encourage safety and implement procedures that work for them. Here we will help you understand a bit about each of the fatal fours of construction:

• Falls: Because falls are the number one killer of construction workers on the job, fall protection is required.
• Electrocutions: Electrocutions are second deadliest and encourage employers and workers to practice safe work practices in the workplace. This includes staying a safe distance away from power lines as well as looking for overhead lines when operating equipment.
• Struck-by: There are several struck-by hazards, such as flying objects, falling objects, swinging objects, and rolling objects.
• Caught-in/Between: These are accidents that occur when workers are pinned between machinery, which can be easily prevented.

Now that you understand why construction accidents are so prevalent, you and your employer must work together to prevent these devastating accidents. OSHA is working in many states to make a difference and create better preventative practices. Call us today if you have been injured in the construction workplace. We can help you with your workplace injury and help you gain the compensation you deserve.