Construction workers are the most likely to experience fatal and non-fatal injuries. In fact, struck-by injuries are the most common cause of non-fatal injuries for construction workers, explains the CDC.
If you work in the construction industry, it is up to your employer to ensure that struck-by injuries become less common.
Common injuries
In the U.S.m about 2.7 people per 10,000 full-time equivalent workers experience non-fatal struck-by injuries. Generally, the injuries occur because of building materials, scrap, debris and powered and manual hand tools. Those who have the highest rate of struck-by injuries are heating and air conditioning mechanics and ironworkers. Falling and discharged objects tend to be the most common events. When it comes to fatal injuries, the most common reason is being struck by a vehicle at work.
Injury precautions
Both the employer and employee have obligations to themselves and others on the worksite. Employers should have regular training events to ensure that workers understand the different safety precautions that they need to take. There are modules offered by OSHA that cover the fatal four injuries in construction. When workers have regular training on the operation of tools and have the proper safety gear, they can reduce the risk of severe injury.
All workers should have appropriate protective gear, including hardhats, safety glasses and face shields. Small tools should stay tethered to the body to prevent falls from a height. Even small tools can cause serious damage when dropped from a height. Always secure your loads to prevent falling.
Equipment and vehicles should have warning systems and rollover protection structures to keep employees safe.