Construction has a reputation for being the most dangerous industry in the United States – and for good reason. According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration, there were 4,679 fatalities on construction sites in 2014 alone.
Fortunately, there are several strategies that construction site supervisors can use to reduce the risk of worker injuries and deaths. As OHSA explains, employers must provide protective equipment and ensure that employees use them properly. Four of the most essential safety items include:
- Gloves;
- Boots;
- Facemasks;
- And hard hats.
If you were injured on a worksite in Michigan, contact Christopher Trainor & Associates. A personal injury lawyer in Detroit will assess your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim. You may be entitled to compensation for lost income, health-care bills, and noneconomic damages.
Call 1-800-961-8477 to schedule a free case evaluation.
Here are four safety items that can prevent injuries and deaths on construction sites:
- Gloves
Construction sites are peppered with hazards, many of which can amputate fingers and hands. Workers can protect their digits by wearing the appropriate safety gloves for their specific jobs.
- Boots
The right footwear can help construction workers avoid broken bones, lacerations, and amputated toes. You should purchase high-quality boots that are comfortable and meet the specific needs of your particular job. On construction sites, it is usually best to wear metal-toed, puncture-proof, slip-resistant boots with enhanced grip and ankle protection.
- Facemasks
Workers must protect their faces and eyes from flying debris, chemicals, intense light, and other hazards. Employees should wear facemasks or safety goggles while performing any tasks that could injure their eyes.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2,000 workers in the United States sustain eye injuries every day. Some will never see again; others suffer facial disfigurement along with eye damage. Many of these injuries could have been prevented by wearing the appropriate facial protection.
- Hard Hats
The Occupational Safety & Health Administration’s hard hat requirements are outlined in CFR 1910.135 and 1926.100. Specifically, workers must wear hard hats when there is a risk of injuries from flying or falling objects, electrical shock, or other impacts. Examples of these situations include:
- If an employee might hit his or her head on a beam, support, heavy machinery, or other equipment;
- If an employee might suffer a head injury due to debris or objects falling from above;
- And if an employee’s head might come into contact with exposed electrical wires.
If you were injured or lost a loved one in a construction site accident, contact Christopher Trainor & Associates. A Detroit injury attorney will evaluate your case, gather evidence, structure your claim, and handle settlement negotiations on your behalf.
Our office is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call 1-800-961-8477 to schedule a free case evaluation.