Top 10 Safety Risks in Construction: A Comprehensive Guide
In this blog, we’re diving deep into one of the most important topics in construction: safety risks. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the industry, understanding these risks can save lives and prevent serious injuries. This blog will help raise awareness about key hazards and most importantly, keep you safe on the job.
- Suicide in Construction: A Mental Health Crisis
The number one safety risk in construction is not what most would expect: it’s suicide. In fact, for every 1,000 people who die from work-related injuries in the U.S., 5,000 die by suicide. In Canada, the statistics are just as alarming, with 500 people dying by suicide annually. This is a stark reminder that the construction industry is grappling with a mental health crisis.
The root causes? Poorly planned projects, chronic pain from injuries, overtime, opioid addiction, divorce, financial struggles, and the isolation of being away from family. Addressing mental health is essential to reducing these tragic numbers.
- Falls
Falls are a leading cause of death in construction. From leading edges, scaffolding, and ladders, improper use or failure to use fall protection equipment can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. Many companies are shifting away from ladders, opting for safer alternatives like scissor lifts and platform ladders.
- Struck by Objects or Equipment
Getting struck by equipment or objects is a common hazard. Workers need to be vigilant around cranes, forklifts, and vehicles. Falling objects and improper safety gear, such as not wearing hard hats, only increase the risk.
- Electrocution
Live wires, faulty equipment, and poor lockout/tagout practices contribute to electrocution injuries. Workers must follow safety protocols to avoid deadly encounters with electricity.
- Excavation and Caught Between Hazards
Excavation accidents and being caught between equipment or materials pose a major risk. From trench collapses to getting caught in machinery, these incidents are often fatal and require constant vigilance.
- Material Handling
Improper material handling can lead to serious injuries. Whether it’s lifting heavy loads incorrectly or unsafe rigging, workers need proper training to prevent accidents. Forklifts, in particular, can be deadly if operated without proper precautions.
- Exposure to Hazardous Materials
Construction often involves exposure to hazardous substances like asbestos, lead, silica dust, and industrial chemicals. Workers must take precautions to protect their skin, lungs, and eyes from harmful exposure.
- Noise Exposure
Long-term exposure to loud noises on construction sites can lead to permanent hearing loss. Proper ear protection is essential to prevent this.
- Poor Ergonomics
Repetitive motions, heavy lifting, and bad posture can cause long-term injuries. Workers should be trained on proper ergonomics to reduce strain on their bodies.
- Inadequate Training or Supervision
Lack of proper training or supervision can turn routine tasks into dangerous ones. Ensuring that all workers are adequately trained and supervised is crucial for maintaining a safe site.
Bonus: Weather-Related Hazards
Rain, ice, and lightning create additional dangers on a construction site. Slips, trips, falls, and exposure to extreme weather must be addressed with proper planning and precautions.
Learn More and Stay Safe
These top 10 risks highlight just how dangerous construction can be, but with the right training and awareness, these risks can be mitigated. By staying informed, taking proper precautions, and addressing both physical and mental health hazards, we can create safer work environments for everyone.
If you want to learn more we have:
-Takt Virtual Training: (Click here)
-Check out our Youtube channel for more info: (Click here)
-Listen to the Elevate Construction podcast: (Click here)
-Check out our training programs and certifications: (Click here)
-The Takt Book: (Click here)
Discover Jason’s Expertise:
Meet Jason Schroeder, the driving force behind Elevate Construction IST. As the company’s owner and principal consultant, he’s dedicated to taking construction to new heights. With a wealth of industry experience, he’s crafted the Field Engineer Boot Camp and Superintendent Boot Camp – intensive training programs engineered to cultivate top-tier leaders capable of steering their teams towards success. Jason’s vision? To expand his training initiatives across the nation, empowering construction firms to soar to unprecedented levels of excellence.
On we go