Summertime Safety Tips, Part 9: Be Careful Around the Construction Site

Not everyone can experience AC while at the office. Some people, like construction workers, have to work outside in the heat every single day. And although outside work during the summer requires a lot of sweating, there are more dangers on a construction site than experiencing heat stroke.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, there were 4,386 worker fatalities in 2014 and of those fatalities, 20.5 percent involved construction. That means one in five worker deaths were in construction. The top “fatal four” construction site accidents were falls, electrocutions, struck by an object, or getting caught in or between. In fact, of the most 10 most frequently cited standards in construction, the number one citation issued in 2015 was a lack of fall protection.

Summertime is a busy time for construction and we want all our workers to stay safe. So here’s a few things to keep in mind to prevent a construction site accident this summer:

• Always use the properly tool for the task at hand. The use of inadequate or poorly design equipment can lead to health hazards.
• When working on scaffolding, make sure it’s solid, rigid, and have a high weight capacity. Never use a damaged or weakened scaffold.
• Don’t leave any materials or debris on scaffolding at the end of the day. Keep your work area clean.
• Always inspect a ladder or stairs before stepping on it.
• Never enter an unprotected or unsupported trench.
• Wear protective clothing.
• If the day is hot, remember to take many breaks and keep hydrated.
• And always remember, if you see a safety violation, report it immediately to your supervisor or to OSHA.

If you get into a construction site accident while on the job this summer, we can help. Contact the Law Offices of Anthony Carbone today for a free consultation.