Construction sites can be hazardous places at times, especially in Florida where construction is booming. Despite the best safety protocols and precautions, construction accidents still happen more frequently than most people would like to think.
In some cases, these accidents can even be life-threatening as there are a number of common hazards that individuals may face while working on a construction site.
The following is an overview of some of the most common kinds of construction accidents so that you know what to look out for in order to avoid them as much as possible. You will also learn about what you can do to get compensation if you are injured in a construction accident.
Confined Space Accidents
A confined space is any atmospheric space that has limited or reduced amounts of oxygen, excessive amounts of combustible gases, high amounts of pressure, or any combination of these hazards.
These confined spaces can be dangerous for workers because it is difficult to both enter and exit them safely. Workers sometimes wear special gear to protect themselves from the hazards inside the space.
Oftentimes, however, this gear can hinder the workers from exiting the space quickly in case of an emergency. Therefore, they may be at an increased risk of suffering a construction accident in a confined space.
If you are working in a confined space, there are a number of hazards you must be aware of, including:
- The risk of closing off the space, cutting off the flow of oxygen, and causing an asphyxiation accident.
- The risk of being trapped in the space if the air supply is cut off or if something goes wrong with the space’s controls (e.g. if the oxygen flow is shut off).
- The risk of being overcome by the gases or vapors in the space if you enter it before any control of these hazards has been established.
- The risk of being unable to exit the space quickly in an emergency or if an emergency situation arises that requires you to leave the space quickly.
Slip and Fall Accidents
Falls are one of the most common causes of injury in the construction industry. There are a number of types of falls that can happen at construction sites:
Falls from scaffolding or ladders — which can occur due to improper scaffolding setup, the unsafe use of ladders, or other hazards to working at considerable heights.
A slip and or fall accident can occur if someone is on a roof or working near the edge of a roof, on a crane, or on a structure that is not properly guarded. Certain types of construction sites are more likely to have falls than others.
These include sites with many unsecured items, uneven ground, and other hazards. If you are working at a construction site that has a high risk for falls, you must be extra careful and avoid these hazards as much as possible.
Forklift Accidents
Forklifts are heavy-duty vehicles that are used to carry materials and loads around construction sites. They are often used to transport materials in confined spaces that do not have room for a crane.
Although they are machines that can be very useful in the construction industry, they can also be dangerous if used improperly or if they malfunction. This is why it is important to have forklift safety protocols in place and to follow them.
Forklift accidents can happen for a number of reasons. They may happen due to a faulty forklift, or an error on the part of the operator. That being said, forklift accidents can be particularly dangerous — especially for those who are working near the machine or in the forklift’s path.
Due to the fact that forklifts are large and heavy, they can cause significant damage if they tip over or crash into someone.
If you are working near a forklift, there are a number of potential hazards you must watch out for, including:
- The forklift flips over, causing injury to anyone who happens to be in its path.
- The forklift’s load falling off and hitting someone.
Scaffolding Accidents
Scaffolding is a type of framework that is built temporarily to support workers and materials in order to work at heights. It can be an extremely useful tool in the construction industry, but it is important to use it properly and to make sure it is built safely. A great number of injuries in the construction industry happen while working at heights.
Scaffolding accidents can happen for a number of reasons, including:
- Not properly constructing or installing the scaffolding.
- Using the wrong materials or following the proper building protocols.
- Failing to secure materials properly, overloading the scaffolding, or failing to wear the proper safety gear.
Machine Operator Accidents
Machines are a common fixture at construction sites, and they can make the job easier. However, they are also machines with moving parts and other potential hazards and potentially dangerous flaws. As such, it is important for workers to be careful around them and follow all of the machine’s safety protocols in order to avoid accidents.
Machine operator accidents can happen for a number of reasons, including:
- Not training new workers on how to use the machine safely.
- Neglecting to clean the machine or perform routine maintenance on the machine.
What to Do When You’re Injured in a Construction Accident
Construction sites are full of potential hazards, and accidents are bound to happen from time to time. However, there are a number of things you can do to try to prevent these accidents from occurring.
Of course, not every accident is preventable, especially when it comes to faulty manufacturing. You should know that construction workers are typically prohibited from filing a lawsuit directly against their employer in the event of a construction accident. It’s much more common to sue a third party like the manufacturer of any equipment that malfunctioned, causing your injury.
In any case, if you’ve been injured in a construction accident, and you want compensation, you’re going to need a lawyer. By getting a lawyer, you’ll have a much better chance of actually getting your hands on the compensation that you deserve.
Have You Been in a Construction Accident? Call Anidjar & Levine and Take What’s Yours!
Being injured by faulty equipment or machinery in a construction accident can result in life-changing or even life-threatening injuries. You should be compensated for these injuries, especially if they have prevented you from securing gainful employment. The lawyers at Anidjar & Levine know how to handle construction accident lawsuits and we know how to win.
In an Accident? The Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine Can Help.
Our injury attorneys assist people in Florida who have been injured in traffic accidents caused by negligent drivers, road rage, and more. Contact us today to explore your legal options and determine if you qualify for financial compensation. You may be able to collect compensation for medical bills, loss of wages, disability, and other losses related to your injuries.
Call the Law Firm of Anidjar & Levine at 1-888-816-9520 for a free consultation.
