Construction is a dangerous job. Every year, thousands of workers are injured on construction sites across the United States. Many of these injuries are preventable with the proper safety precautions in place. In this blog post, we will discuss OHSA’s fatal four: falls, electrocutions, struck by object, and caught in/between objects. By understanding what these dangers are and how to avoid them, you can keep your workers safe on your construction site!
OSHA Sets Safety Standards for Construction Sites
The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) is the federal agency responsible for setting safety standards in the workplace. They have developed a set of rules to help protect workers in a variety of industries, including construction. OSHA requires that employers provide safe working conditions, including proper training and equipment, to reduce the risk of injury on the job.
What are OHSA’s Fatal Four?
The fatal four refers to the four main causes of construction site fatalities: falls, electrocutions, struck by objects, and caught in/between objects.
1. Falls
Falls are one of the most common causes of death in construction sites. Falling from a height, such as scaffolding, ladders, and roofs, can result in serious injury or death.
How to Prevent Falling on Construction Sites
Employers should ensure that workers are properly trained on how to use protective equipment, such as harnesses and guardrails, and that workers are aware of potential fall hazards.
2. Electrocutions
Electrocutions occur when a worker comes into contact with an exposed electrical source. On construction sites where electricity is used, electrocutions can occur if proper safety protocols are not followed. After heavy rainfall, there is an increased threat of electrocutions due to the accumulation of water on the ground.
How to Prevent Electrocution on Construction Sites
Before working with electricity, workers should be trained on how to identify and avoid potential electrical hazards. Employers should ensure that all exposed outlets are inspected regularly and all electrical cords are kept in good condition.
3. Struck by Object
This type of accident occurs when a worker is hit by an object, such as a tool or piece of debris. These types of accidents are common on construction sites due to the high amounts of movement and activity.
How to Prevent Objects from Striking Workers on Construction Sites
Employers should ensure that workers are aware of their surroundings and wear the proper protective equipment , such as hard hats and goggles . Workers should also be instructed to keep tools and materials in secure locations when not in use.
4. Caught In/Between Objects
Workers can become entangled in or crushed between two objects, such as machinery and vehicles. These types of accidents often lead to serious injury or death due to the force and weight of the objects.
How to Prevent Caught In/Between Accidents on Construction Sites
When setting up and preparing for a job, employers should ensure that adequate safety measures are in place to prevent workers from becoming trapped between objects. Machines and vehicles should be inspected regularly and workers should be provided with the necessary training on how to operate them safely.
Keep Construction Workers Safe With Proper Precautions & Training
OHSA’s fatal four are the main causes of death and injury on construction sites, but these injuries are preventable with proper safety precautions and training. By understanding what these dangers are and how to avoid them, you can keep your workers safe on your construction site!
Contact Atlantic Equipment for Construction Safety Information, Tools, & Supplies
For more information on construction safety , contact the experts at Atlantic Equipment . We provide the tools and supplies necessary to keep your construction site safe, including safety gear, training materials, and more. To learn more and to view our full selection of products , visit our website today!