Construction is one of the most dangerous professions and one of the fastest-growing industries. Therefore, construction industry injury rates are not decreasing, making it essential to train their employees to avoid them (Get your citb test booking here). This article will explore six of the most common injuries in construction and easy ways to prevent them through better safety practices at work sites.
1. Falls
Falls are a huge concern for construction workers. In this industry, falls from heights are the most commonly reported work-related accident. You can avoid falls by learning to climb and descend ladders as well as scaffolding safely. When entering a high window, you need to find a way to secure yourself once inside and during the climb up. Having a first aid kit on hand and keeping it near where you climb and descend ladders and scaffolding will prevent falls and save your company money by keeping employees out of the hospital.
To prevent falls, especially at higher ends of ladders or scaffolds, ensure the safety guards are used, so you are not falling at any point down the ladder.
2. Hitting Objects
Hitting an object while working is a common occurrence in construction. You can avoid hurting yourself by either not striking objects or making sure you are far away from them when they get struck. Be sure to secure all your tools, materials, and equipment to prevent them from flying around while you are working. Find ways to secure supports to prevent them from crumbling or cracking.
3. Cuts and Splinters
Cuts and splinters on job sites are common. You can avoid these injuries by wearing gloves at all times, even when handling tools or materials. Also, be sure you are not on top of sharp objects when they are struck. This error causes the most injuries from objects being struck.
4. Electrical Burns
Electrical burns are commonly reported in construction accidents. You can avoid them by wearing safety goggles and shoulder pads when working with electricity. Also, be sure to stay away from moving objects such as chainsaws and other tools that cut through materials. Many burns occur from workers getting too close to moving parts.
5. Wrench Injuries
Wrench injuries are often caused by turning a wrench during tightening or loosening. Be sure to firmly hold the wrench with both hands and apply even pressure with your arms straight. You can avoid wrench injuries by investing in a torque wrench that does not require exertion on the part of the worker. Make sure your wrench is also securely attached to the tool.
6. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a repetitive strain disease that affects the hand muscles and tendons. You can prevent this condition by avoiding overuse while performing similar tasks multiple times a day at the same time while wearing gloves. You can identify Carpal tunnel syndrome by avoiding specific activities that cause pain in the hands and wrists, such as cutting or gripping. You can prevent carpal tunnel syndrome by using a device to check for the condition, including a waist belt. Then, steer clear of jobs that require hands-on activities.
7. Heat-Related Illnesses
Heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion, are common at work sites. You can prevent these illnesses by wearing proper clothing and equipment and acclimating yourself to the hot temperatures of the site. This means slowly increasing your workload in the hotter weather. It is also important to be aware of how you feel while working in super-heated environments. For instance, if you are feeling dizzy or exhausted, it is time to take a break.
Construction is an extremely lucrative industry with a high demand for qualified workers. However, this occupation can be dangerous when working with heavy machinery in hot weather. Be sure to follow the safety practices of the OSHA to help avoid injury during your construction career.