Work on construction sites can often be dangerous. Hundreds of accidents happen every year as a result of falling, crashing between the parts of the machinery, electric disruptions, and other unfortunate situations. In response to this, OSHA has divided all the hazards that appear on the worksites into four groups and called it “The Fatal Four”. What are these causes of construction accidents and how to prevent them? Read more in today’s article.
“The Fatal Four” – what is it in case of construction accidents?
The top four drivers of construction fatalities are Falls, Struck-By, Caught-In/Between, and Electrical Hazards.
- Fall Hazards
It is important to understand not only the consequences of the falls but also what might be causing them. Holes, skylights, platforms, sharp edges, and debris – all these can negatively influence the safety of the construction workers.
To minimize the risk, every employee needs to pass a fall protection certification , thanks to which they will know the OSHA’s safety requirement: the edges must be guarded, the holes must be covered and the work on the platforms must be performed using the special anti-fall equipment.
- Caught-In/Between Hazards
Even though it might seem obvious not to place yourself between a working machine and an immovable object, cases like these still happen on construction sites. As a result, multiple victims suffer from getting squeezed, caught, or crushed between two or more objects.
Not to let this happen, always stay away from the machinery if you are not working with it, wear the safety equipment relevant to your type of job, watch out for the movements of the loads and machines, and do not cross the safety barricades.
- Struck-By Hazards
This type of danger includes accidents when the employee gets hit or injured by a stable or movable object. This can derive from improper storage or relocation of the materials, as well as from unskilled handling of cranes, loader trucks, or heavy machinery.
To reduce the risks of struck-by hazards, always follow the safety instructions and make sure that all employees are aware of them and have completed osha training classes in nyc. Besides this, the use of personal protective equipment and marking all dangerous spots will also minimize fatalities. Always lift the loads only within the capacity of the machinery and make sure those loads are secured.
- Electrical Hazards
Dangers connected to electricity cause fire, explosions, electrical shock, and electrocution. The reason for this might be contacted with energized sources. power lines, or misuse of extensions, and flexible cords.
Protect yourself by checking all electrical tools before use, avoiding using any damaged equipment, ensuring the wiring is properly grounded, and training others on safe working methods.
