The “Fatal Four” Of Construction Accidents

Construction sites are one of the most dangerous workplaces, and there are countless ways that a person can be injured on a construction site. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) monitors the safety of such workplaces and created the “Fatal Four” list of the most common types of fatal accidents in the construction industry. In Houston, the dedicated and knowledgeable Houston personal injury lawyers at Gilde Law Firm if you or a loved one has been injured, or worse, on a construction site. To learn more about how our office can help with your case, call or contact us to schedule a free consultation.

What are the “Fatal Four?”

Every year, OSHA releases information regarding the injuries and deaths that occur on construction sites, including how many people are killed by the “Fatal Four” causes of workplace fatalities. The top four causes of construction site deaths include falls, being struck by an object, electrocution, and being caught in or between objects.

Falls

Falls cause over 39 percent of all fatal accidents on construction sites, with high elevations leading to most fatal accidents like operating on ladders, scaffolds, and roofs. Falls also happen when a person is working at heights and the structure collapses or safety protocols are not in place.

Being Struck By an Object

The second most common cause of construction site deaths is being struck by an object. This includes being struck by a flying object, a falling object, swinging objects, and rolling objects. In many cases, a lack of proper training on machinery or equipment contributes to this type of fatal accident, as does a lack of proper safety equipment for people on construction sites.

Electrocution

There are many sources of live electricity on a construction site, which is why electrocution is the third most common source of construction site deaths. Touching a live wire, coming in contact with a power line, touching electrified machinery, or failing to turn off power sources can all lead to deadly electrocution.

Caught In or Between Objects

The last of the “Fatal Four” is being caught in or between objects on a construction site. This involves a victim getting a part or their entire body struck in or between objects that is then trapped, stuck, or crushed. Getting caught in moving machinery, pinned between equipment, and cave-ins all contribute to this type of fatal accident on a construction site.

Compensation for Construction Site Accidents

Compensation for construction site accidents is typically covered through workers’ compensation. Benefits include wage coverage, coverage of medical expenses, vocational rehabilitation, and in the case of fatal accidents the family can receive survivors benefits as well as funeral and burial costs. However, if an accident on a construction site is caused by a third party, the victim and their loved ones may also be able to seek additional compensation through a third-party claim. To learn more, talk to our office now.

Talk to Our Office Now

Have you or a loved one been injured on a construction site? If so, the experienced personal injury attorneys at Gilde Law Firm in Houston are here to help. Call or contact our office today to set up a free case evaluation.

Resource:

osha.gov/data/commonstats