Most construction workers feel safe until they experience an accident. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, employees are three times more likely to suffer an injury or die in the construction industry than in any other sector.
In 2009, construction workers accounted for at least one-third of all work-related fatalities. These sites are peppered with hazards, and some companies fail to enforce safety standards.
If you were injured on a construction site, contact Antin, Ehrlich & Epstein, LLP. An accident lawyer in New York City can help you navigate the often unpredictable workers’ compensation process. Our attorneys have more than 75 years of combined experience negotiating and litigating personal-injury claims.
Call 917-730-7151 to schedule a consultation. You can also visit the http://workers-compensation.usattorneys.com/ to learn more about workers’ compensation laws.
Here are the 10 most common injuries in the construction industry:
- Lacerations
The risk of a serious laceration is high on a construction site. Ill-maintained equipment, broken tools and sharp nails are just a few dangers. Deep gashes can be life-threatening due to blood loss and the potential for infection.
- Spine Injuries
Many construction workers suffer back injuries. A severe injury to the spine may cause life-long paralysis. Workers should insist on using harnesses or safety nets when laboring at significant heights.
- Burns
Workers risk burn injuries when they deal with harsh chemicals, flammable liquids, exposed wires, explosives and more. Serious burn injuries can cause permanent disfigurement.
- Head Injuries
Workers can drop sharp, heavy tools from significant heights, which may cause devastating head injuries to those below. Structural collapses can also cause serious head injuries. This is why hardhats are mandatory in work zones. They can reduce the severity of head injuries or prevent them altogether.
- Fractures
Crushed bones and fractures can cripple people for life. According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration, fractures are common for workers who fall victim to caught-in/between accidents.
- Limb Amputations
Misuse or lack of maintenance of heavy equipment and sharp tools can result in amputations – either at the worksite or during surgery to save the victim’s life.
- Stress Injuries
Repetitive or continuous physical movement, such as bending, lifting or moving unnaturally, can cause stress injuries. These injuries occur gradually and worsen over time.
- Loss of Sight
It is important to wear eyeglasses and face protection when working with chemicals, gases, welding tools or grinding machines. People go blind because of chemical exposure, bright light and debris.
- Heatstroke
Many construction sites are constantly running – even in extreme heat. New York often experiences heat waves that make workers vulnerable to heatstroke. This can cause vital organs to fail.
- Loss of Hearing
Construction sites are loud enough to damage eardrums. This can cause immediate or gradual loss of hearing. You may be able to prevent hearing loss by wearing earplugs at work.
If you were injured while performing work-related duties, contact Antin, Ehrlich & Epstein, LLP. A New York City injury attorney can evaluate your accident to determine if you may have valid grounds for a claim. Schedule a consultation today by calling 917-730-7151.