California residents and people across the nation know how important construction workers are to our economy. However, more than 1,200 workers died on public highways per year between 2003 and 2010, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The highways and streets can be very dangerous places to work.
According to one source, more than 150,000 construction workers are injured each year. Many of these injuries are related to operating heavy machinery on the road and during construction of buildings and houses. Many injuries could be prevented by employers taking extra precautions and adhering to safety regulations.
An occupational safety and health website cites five tips for creating a safer work environment for construction workers operating large machinery. Inspection is very important when operating something that has many different parts that could lead to injury. Proper regulations for inspecting machinery can reduce accidents. Working slower means working safer, according to the article. Staying alert on the job is also an important way to avoid injury. Additional precautions that can be taken include effectively communicating with other employees as well as employers. It is also one of the responsibilities of employers to keep employees updated on safety procedures and policies in the industry.
Even when safety precautions such as the ones outlined above are in place, construction accidents can and do happen. Some people injured on the job choose to consult with an attorney who has experience in representing those who are hurt in workplace accidents to ensure that they receive the proper compensation for medical expenses and lost wages through the filing of a claim for workers’ compensation benefits.
Source: CDC, ‘MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY,” Aug. 14, 2014
Source: EHS Today, “5 Tips to Safely Operate Heavy Machinery“, James White, December 24, 2014