Millions of workers in New York and other states report for duty at construction sites every day, knowing that they will put their lives on the line. Regardless of whether they are involved in building a residence or a skyscraper, some common hazards exist. Although employers are responsible for the health and safety of their workers, employees can do a lot to protect themselves and prevent construction workers’ accidents.
One of the most important aspects of avoiding injuries is to attend each safety meeting and training session. Being informed and educated about potential hazards can help to establish safe workplace practices. Training will also ensure that workers recognize the importance of wearing personal protective equipment such as hard hats, face shields or safety goggles, safety boots with steel toes, gloves and fall protection harnesses for working on elevated levels.
While scaffolds and ladders are known safety hazards, all elevated work areas pose fall hazards – making up a significant percentage of construction worker deaths every year. For that reason, no one must work at heights without the necessary PPE, and such equipment must be thoroughly checked before each shift, and workers must make sure they know how to use it. Scaffold and ladder safety compliance is essential, and daily safety assessments to identify damage or wear and tear is crucial. Maintaining safety regulations about avoiding overhead power lines and securing tools to prevent dropping them can also go a long way to keep construction workers safe.
These are, but some of the most prominent safety hazards workers can avoid to prevent injuries. However, construction workers’ accidents will likely still happen, and victims will have to face medical bills and possible temporary disability, or worse. An experienced New York workers’ compensation attorney can help victims to pursue the benefits to which they are entitled.
