Construction Worker Falls Account for Startling Number of Deaths

Construction is the most dangerous job in America, with more than 20 percent of all worker fatalities occurring in this field. Each day, workers die from electrocution, from falling debris, and from being caught between different types of machinery. Though these types of deaths are far too common, falling poses the highest risk of death and injury of any construction related accident.

In all, falls make up 40 percent of all construction related deaths, and 8 percent of all worker deaths in the United States each year. Though the risk of fatality is higher when working on taller buildings such as skyscrapers and apartment buildings, a fall of even five feet can be fatal under the wrong circumstances.

Short distance falls rarely result in death for the public at large, but aspects of construction work increase the incidence of death when dealing with falls of ten feet or less. Because construction workers are often carrying heavy materials, such as drywall, or are performing difficult overhead tasks, controlling their falls is more difficult than when a person just trips.

Because they are unable to protect themselves in many cases, proper safety protocols to deal with potential falls are important. Harnesses are one important safety feature, as is the use of properly secured hard hats. Even when these safety features do not prevent accidents, the risk of significant injury or death is lower.

If someone you love has been injured or killed in a construction fall, there is a strong likelihood that proper safety precautions were not taken. Determining whether or not the company properly accounted for falling risks is important. Please consult with an experienced attorney regarding your case. A qualified lawyer can help you make sure that any negligent parties are held accountable.