How to Prevent Construction Site Accidents

The construction industry is among the most dangerous industries in New York and throughout the country. When employers and workers fail to follow safety rules or regulations or fail to implement safety programs, people at the construction site are at great risk of sustaining serious injuries. If you work in the construction industry, we recommend you keep the tips outlined in this blog in mind to help prevent construction accidents on the job site.

The New York construction accident lawyers at Finz & Finz, P.C. provide experienced legal representation for those who have suffered injuries on a construction site. Construction site accidents can cause serious injuries, including traumatic brain injury (TBI), loss of limb, permanent disability, broken bones, blindness, and more. Often, the medical bills associated with these injuries are very costly, and there may be a lengthy period of disability and lost wages.

If you have been injured in an NYC construction accident, contact Finz & Finz, P.C., now at 855-TOP-FIRM to schedule a free case evaluation. Our experienced and knowledgeable New York construction accident attorneys can explain all your legal options and rights.

At Finz & Finz, P.C., we strongly advise you keep the following safety tips in mind as they are proven to help prevent construction accidents:

Always use proper safety gear. Construction sites are known for unpredictable accidents. In order to be protected as a construction worker, wear proper protection at all times. Basic safety gear includes eye protection, hardhats, and hearing protection. Heavy-duty gloves, slip-resistant boots, and masks need to be worn on all construction sites.

Reduce the amount of work at night. Dark nighttime environments create a greater risk for accidents. If you can, reduce the amount of construction work you do at night. If you can’t do that, try to at least limit your work to lower risk areas of the site. In addition to reduced visibility late at night, workers are generally less alert.

Report any hazardous conditions. If you see dangerous hazards on the construction site, immediately report it to your employer. You may even want to file a complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or your union representative.

Wear reflective clothing. Reflective or highly visible clothing should be worn at all times on the job site. When construction workers can be seen by equipment operators, it reduces the risk of them being struck.

Attend regular safety meetings. Many construction accidents are caused by poor communication. Construction managers should hold frequent meetings with staff to discuss potentially dangerous activities and hazards. If workers are not informed of the dangers on the site, accidents are certain to happen.

Maintain equipment. Equipment accidents are common. Regular and proper equipment maintenance can greatly curb the risk of equipment accidents.

Use warning signs. Construction signs need proper signage to warn of dangers on the site. These signs need to clear and accompanied by cones and other equipment to rope off hazardous areas.

Utilize proper driving techniques. When vehicles and heavy equipment are used on a construction site, the chance of accidents increases. Depending on the circumstances, the site may need buffer zones, pylons, barrels, and running lights. Vehicles need to have warning lights to give notice to approaching traffic. Also, a spotter should always be used when backing up a vehicle.

Implement fall protection. Falls are among the most common causes of serious injuries and fatalities on job sites. Fall protection equipment should be used at all times. If a party fails to follow fall protection protocols and you are injured because of it, you may be able to hold them liable.

Exercise before work. Starting your day with warm-up exercises can help stretch out your body, help you develop better reflexes, and even sharpen your mind. Regular exercise can also help lessen the severity of your injuries in case you happen to be hurt in a construction accident.

Stay out of the sun if possible. Too much sunlight and heat exposure can cause construction workers to become fatigued and irritable. During the hot summer months, especially, try to stay out of the sun when you can. Drink plenty of water so you stay hydrated. This can reduce the risk of heatstroke. Also, wear appropriate clothing and eye protection when out in direct sunlight.

Types of Construction Accidents

Accidents that are common on construction sites in New York include:

• Falling equipment and objects
• Falls from heights
• Falls from the same level
• Crane accidents
• Forklift accidents
• Ladder accidents
• OSHA violations
• Slips, trips, and falls
• Explosions and fires
• Electrocution
• Accidents caused by tools
• Exposure to toxic chemicals and substances
• Trench collapses
• Overexertion

Common Construction Accident Injuries

Construction accidents can cause workers to sustain a wide range of injuries, including:

• Burn injuries
• Electrocution
• Eye injury, including blindness and impaired vision
• Broken bones
• Bruises, cuts, and lacerations
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Paralysis
• Respiratory diseases
• Amputation
• Internal organ damage
• Knee and ankle injuries
• Neck, shoulder, and back injuries
• Sensory loss
• Heatstroke
• Repetitive motion injuries
• Soft tissue injuries
• Illnesses caused by toxic chemical exposure
• Post-traumatic stress disorder

Talk to a New York Construction Accident Attorney Now

At Finz & Finz, P.C., our highly skilled and compassionate New York construction accident lawyers understand how construction accident injuries can upend our clients’ lives. That’s why we fight to secure full and fair compensation for our clients. We have a long successful track record of favorable results for our injured construction worker clients throughout New York.

The New York construction accident attorneys at Finz & Finz, P.C. are dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured construction workers. Our attorneys will handle all aspects of your injury claim so that you can focus all of your attention on your recovery. Call Finz & Finz, P.C. now at 855-TOP-FIRM to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.