There are many advantages to working in the field of construction. Those who gain specific trade skills or move into a management role can earn a high salary without a college degree. Moreover, there is always demand for construction work, even when the economy is slow. However, working in construction also has a downside, and that is the high risk of injury or even death from a construction site accident. The following are some facts about Construction Accidents in Ottawa County.
Falls Cause Fatalities
Falls are the number one cause of deaths and serious injuries at construction sites. More than 30% of construction fatalities result from a fall. A great deal of construction work involves working at heights, and without the right safety precautions in place, workers are at great risk of falling from a roof or scaffolding. The next two top causes of fatalities are being hit by an object and electrocution.
The First Year Is The Most Dangerous
About two-thirds of construction injuries occur during a worker’s first year on the job. New workers are performing dangerous tasks at which they are not yet experienced, and they may not have had sufficient safety training. Since construction work tends to be seasonal, the chances are high that any construction crew will have new employees every few months. The key to minimizing risk for new employees is to prioritize safety training and make sure they know how to use the protective equipment before putting them on a job.
Most Accidents Can Be Prevented
In addition to safety training, protective equipment like arrest harnesses can prevent a large percentage of accidents. Unfortunately, many workplaces fail to provide these crucial preventative measures. When an accident occurs that could have been prevented, injured employees are due benefits from workers’ compensation.
Workers who are injured; in Construction Accidents in Ottawa County can get help from a personal injury attorney. An attorney who is familiar with workers’ compensation law can assist clients in getting the benefits they deserve. In some cases, a claim may also be made against a third-party equipment manufacturer. To speak with an attorney about getting workers compensation for an injury resulting from a construction accident, contact Bleakley Law Offices P C.
