While slip and fall accidents can occur in any workplace environment like an office or a warehouse, the chance of a serious slip and fall accident is far more common among construction workers. In fact, in 2018, there were a reported 320 construction workers who were fatally injured as a result of a slip and fall.
Sadly, these tragic accidents could have been stopped had employers implemented the correct training and made sure employees were using the required fall prevention equipment. Here, we will look at how slip and fall accidents happen on a construction site, the types of accidents, and what steps can be put in place to prevent further accidents from occurring.
Common Causes of Slip and Falls
If you’re a construction worker, there are a variety of hazards in the workplace that can increase your risk of a slip and fall. These include uneven surfaces, slippery or wet surfaces, trash, or debris on the floor, as well as damaged or broken handrails. It is your employer’s responsibility to stop any of these hazards from occurring, as they can put you in harm’s way and increase your chance of getting injured.
Types of Slip and Falls
In the construction sector, there are two kinds of slip and fall accidents. These are falls on the same level, which usually result in less severe injuries, such as bruises, minor cuts, and strains. On the other hand, falls to a lower level can understandably cause severe, and potentially fatal injuries, especially if the worker falls from a level that is much higher off the ground.
Steps to Prevent Slip and Falls
Your employer has a legal responsibility to ensure the workplace is safe for all employees, including construction sites. Although some accidents are inevitable, there are steps your employer can take to protect you from slip and fall accidents. These include general housekeeping, maintaining indoor and outdoor surfaces, as well as examining lifting equipment. Other things employers can do include covering openings and holes, protecting stairs and ladders, and providing regular training for employees on all things health and safety.
Common Slip and Fall Injuries
If you are involved in a slip and fall accident, your injuries can be incredibly severe, especially if you have fallen from scaffolding. Some injuries can include burns or abrasions, amputation, fractures, and traumatic brain injury. Whatever injuries you sustain, you should hire a law firm like Oresky Law who can help represent you if you were injured. When picking the right slip and fall lawyers for the job, ensure they have excellent attention to detail as well as good time management skills, and that they are compassionate and understanding of your injuries. Do not delay in seeking help, as the longer you wait, the less chance you have of getting justice.
While slip and fall accidents are more common on a construction site, that’s not to say they should ever happen in the first place. Should you have an accident on a construction site, make sure you hire an expert attorney to guide you through the case and get the compensation you deserve.
