Construction Accidents

Accidents occurring on the construction sites are called construction accidents. There are many types of construction accidents including exposure to toxic chemicals, falls, over exertion, trench collapse and injury due to defective equipments. Though many safety measures are taken to avoid accidents on the construction sites, many workers die every year in the United States at construction sites.

Defining Construction Site Accidents

Accidents can happen anywhere and in any industry. It is the duty of employer to provide healthy and safe working environment and keep the risk of accidents as low as possible. Construction sites are more hazardous as compared to a building, office or store. However, danger of accidents can be prevented by implementing safety measures at construction sites.

For example, general contractors should provide a safe site, hire employees carefully, warn workers of the hazardous chemical exposure at the construction site, to coordinate the safety of job etc . The workers at the construction site should be trained in operating equipments and other machinery. In order to prevent the accidents, construction site has to be managed according to the laws and acts enforced.

Construction site accidents involve falls off ladders, collapsing, scaffolds, electrocutions, use of defective machinery like hoists, tractors ,cranes , forklifts and conveyors; malfunctioning tools and collapse of walls or floors. Many times such accidents may lead to serious injuries or even death.

Workers Compensation for Construction Site Accidents

The worker who suffers injury in construction site accidents has right to workers compensation. According to the Workers’ Compensation Act, employers have to compensate the workers injured on the job. In case of serious and catastrophic injuries, the amount of workers’ compensation given by the employer may be insufficient.

The legal action may be taken against those who are responsible for various activities at the construction site including general contractors, equipment manufacturer, general manager, sub-contractors etc. For an accident on the construction site architects, manufacturer of equipments, owner and insurance companies can be held responsible.

For example, there are many contractors involved in construction projects. Full damages can be recovered from the contractor. Similarly, if a worker is injured due to defective tool or machine, he is compensated.