Construction is one of the most dangerous industries in New York, with a high incidence of accidents leading to severe injuries or fatalities. Knowing and understanding the common causes of these accidents will help in preventing them and ensuring a safer working environment. This article explores the primary causes of construction accidents in New York, supported by statistics, insights, and practical prevention tips.

#1 Falls from Heights

Statistics:

• According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls are the leading cause of construction fatalities, accounting for 36.4% of deaths in the industry.

Causes:

• Inadequate Fall Protection: Many construction sites lack proper fall protection measures such as guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems.
• Unstable Working Surfaces: Working on scaffolding, ladders, or roofs that are not properly secured can lead to falls.
• Lack of Training: Workers who are not adequately trained in using fall protection equipment or in recognizing fall hazards are at higher risk.

Prevention:

• Implement comprehensive fall protection systems.
• Ensure all working surfaces are stable and secure.
• Provide regular training on fall prevention and the proper use of safety equipment.

#2 Struck by Objects

Statistics:

• The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that injuries caused by being "struck by" objects make up 8.2% of fatalities in the construction industry.

Causes:

• Falling Tools or Materials: Tools, equipment, and building materials falling from heights can cause serious injuries.
• Moving Vehicles: Construction sites often have heavy machinery and vehicles moving around, posing a risk of workers being struck.
• Flying Debris: Activities like cutting, grinding, or demolishing can send debris flying, injuring workers.

Prevention:

• Secure all tools and materials at height.
• Implement and enforce the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hard hats and safety glasses.
• Establish clear zones for vehicle operations and ensure workers are aware of these areas.

#3 Electrocutions

Statistics:

• Electrocution is one of OSHA's "Fatal Four," responsible for 8.5% of construction worker deaths.

Causes:

• Contact with Power Lines: Working near overhead or underground power lines without proper precautions can lead to electrocution.
• Faulty Wiring and Equipment: Improperly installed or maintained electrical systems can pose significant hazards.
• Lack of Grounding: Equipment that is not properly grounded increases the risk of electric shock.

Prevention:

• Identify and mark all electrical hazards on site.
• Ensure all electrical systems and equipment are properly installed and maintained.
• Provide training on electrical safety and the importance of grounding equipment.

#4 Caught-in/between Accidents

Statistics:

• Caught-in/between incidents result in 7.3% of construction fatalities, according to OSHA.

Causes:

• Trench Collapses: Workers can be buried or crushed by collapsing trench walls.
• Machinery: Getting caught in or between machinery is a significant risk, especially if proper safeguards are not in place.
• Building Collapses: Structural failures can trap workers within the debris.

Prevention:

• Ensure proper shoring and sloping of trenches.
• Install and maintain machine guards and provide training on safe machine operation.
• Schedule regular inspections to ensure the structural integrity of buildings and scaffolding.

#5 Overexertion and Repetitive Motion Injuries

Statistics:

• Overexertion accounts for 25% of all workplace injuries, as per the National Safety Council (NSC).

Causes:

• Manual Handling of Materials: Lifting, carrying, and moving heavy materials can lead to overexertion injuries.
• Repetitive Tasks: Repeated motions can cause musculoskeletal disorders over time.
• Poor Ergonomics: Inadequate ergonomic practices can exacerbate the risk of injury.

Prevention:

• Use mechanical aids and equipment to lift and move heavy materials.
• Implement ergonomic solutions and ensure proper body mechanics.
• Rotate tasks to reduce repetitive strain on specific body parts.

Conclusion

Construction accidents in New York are often the result of multiple preventable factors. By understanding the common causes—falls, struck-by incidents, electrocutions, caught-in/between accidents, and overexertion—construction companies can implement effective safety measures to protect their workers. Regular training, proper use of PPE, following safety protocols, and a proactive approach to hazard identification and mitigation are crucial steps in reducing the incidence of construction accidents.

Injured? The Office of Brandon J. Broderick, Workers Compensation Lawyers, Can Help

If the unfortunate happens and you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t go at it alone. An experienced lawyer can advocate for your best interest and pursue fair compensation for your damages. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, you can count on us to work tirelessly for your quality of life. Our long track record of success has helped people like you move forward after sustaining an injury caused by another’s negligence. 

Contact us now for a free legal review.