Accident at work

Accidents at Work: Common Causes and How to Prevent Them

November 28, 2024/in /by

Accidents at work are a significant issue that affects thousands of workers across the UK each year. No workplace, whether a busy construction site or a quiet office, is free from hazards. The accident at work solicitors specialises in accident claims. We see firsthand how a seemingly ordinary day can suddenly become a life-changing event for individuals. While some accidents happen due to unforeseen circumstances, many accidents can be prevented by implementing appropriate safety measures. The Bonnar Accident Law aims to raise awareness about the most common causes of workplace accidents and how to avoid them.

Read our comprehensive guide on the 20 most common causes of accidents at work and how you can avoid these.

20 Most Common Workplace Accidents

Be it a construction site, a corporate office, a restaurant, a warehouse, etc., accidents at work can happen anywhere, anytime.

Here are the most common causes that our accident-at-work solicitors have dealt with over the years:

01. Slips, Trips, and Falls

How it happens:
These occur when floors are wet, cluttered, or uneven.

How to prevent it:
Clean spills immediately, use warning signs and ensure floors are dry and clutter-free. Regularly inspect flooring for hazards, ensure spills are cleaned immediately, and provide slip-resistant mats in high-traffic areas. Implement clear pathways and use proper signage to warn of risks.

Real-life scenario example:
Sarah, an office assistant in Glasgow, slipped on a wet floor near the coffee machine because there was no warning sign after it was mopped.

02. Manual Handling Injuries

How it happens:
Lifting, pulling, or carrying heavy items improperly can cause back or muscle injuries.

How to prevent it:
Train employees on proper lifting techniques and provide trolleys or lifting aids. Provide appropriate lifting equipment, such as trolleys or hoists. Encourage workers to seek help when handling heavy loads.

Real-life scenario example:
Mike, a warehouse worker in Edinburgh, strained his back lifting a heavy box of tools without assistance or a trolley.

accident at work solicitors

03. Falling Objects

How it happens:
Items falling from shelves or scaffolding can result in serious injuries.

How to prevent it:
Secure all items stored at height, use toe boards, and ensure hard hats are worn on-site. Store items securely, avoid overloading shelves, and use safety nets or toe boards in elevated areas. Require hard hats in zones where falling objects are a risk.

Real-life scenario example:
Liam, a construction worker in Aberdeen, was hit by a loose brick that fell from scaffolding overhead.

04. Machine-Related Injuries

How it happens:
Improperly used or malfunctioning machinery can lead to cuts, amputations, or entanglements.

How to prevent it:
Install and maintain safety guards on machinery and provide training on proper usage. Train employees on machinery use, perform regular maintenance checks, and install proper safety guards and emergency stop buttons on equipment.

Real-life scenario example:
Emily, a factory worker in Dundee, cut her hand when using a machine without its safety guard in place.

05. Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI)

How it happens:
RSI often results from repetitive tasks, such as typing or assembly work.

How to prevent it:
Provide ergonomic keyboards and chairs, and encourage breaks to stretch and relax. Encourage ergonomic workstations, provide regular breaks, and educate employees on posture and stretching exercises.

Real-life scenario example:
Olivia, a data entry clerk in Inverness, developed wrist pain after months of typing without ergonomic equipment.

06. Electric Shock

How it happens:
Faulty wiring or misuse of electrical equipment can cause shocks or burns.

How to prevent it:
Use qualified electricians for installations, inspect wiring regularly, and educate employees on safe practices. Ensure all electrical installations are performed by qualified electricians, conduct regular equipment inspections, and provide training on the safe use of electrical devices.

Real-life scenario example:
Josh, an electrician in Stirling, suffered an electric shock from faulty wiring in an old building.

07. Workplace Fires

How it happens:
Fires can result from faulty wiring, flammable materials, or unattended equipment.

How to prevent it:
Conduct fire risk assessments, avoid overloading sockets, and ensure staff are trained in fire evacuation procedures. Install fire alarms and extinguishers, and train staff on evacuation procedures. Store flammable materials properly and keep escape routes clear.

Real-life scenario example:
Grace, a retail manager in Perth, was caught in a small fire caused by an overloaded electrical socket in the staff room.

08. Chemical Exposure

How it happens:
Improper handling of hazardous substances can cause burns, poisoning, or respiratory issues.

How to prevent it:
Train employees on chemical handling and supply protective gear like gloves and goggles. Provide proper training on handling chemicals, supply protective equipment like gloves and masks, and store chemicals in labelled secure containers.

Real-life scenario example:
Harry, a lab technician in Paisley, accidentally splashed a corrosive substance on his arm due to improper handling.

09. Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

How it happens:
Continuous exposure to loud noises can damage hearing.

How to prevent it:
Provide earplugs or noise-cancelling earmuffs and schedule hearing checks for at-risk employees. Use soundproofing where possible, enforce the use of hearing protection, and schedule regular hearing tests for employees in noisy environments.

Real-life scenario example:
Jack, an engineer in East Kilbride, noticed hearing loss after years of working near loud machinery without ear protection.

Accident at work

10. Vehicle-Related Accidents

How it happens:
Forklifts, trucks, or other vehicles used at work can cause injuries if not operated safely.

How to prevent it:
Mark clear traffic routes, enforce speed limits and ensure operators are fully trained. Ensure all operators are licensed and trained, maintain vehicles regularly, and enforce speed limits and traffic routes on-site.

Real-life scenario example:
Sophie, a forklift operator in Livingston, accidentally collided with shelving due to unclear traffic markings in the warehouse.

11. Stress-Related Illness

How it happens:
High levels of stress can lead to physical or mental health issues.

How to prevent it:
Foster open communication, provide stress management training, and encourage work-life balance. Promote early detection of stress, provide mental health benefits, and offer access to counselling services. Enforce a no-contact-after-work policy to ensure a healthy work-life balance.

Real-life scenario example:
Hannah, a project manager in Cumbernauld, developed anxiety due to excessive workload and lack of support.

12. Falls from Height

How it happens:
This is a major risk in construction or warehouse settings.

How to prevent it:
Use stabilised ladders, and fall protection gear like harnesses, and ensure proper training for working at height. Use fall protection equipment like harnesses and guardrails, inspect ladders and scaffolds regularly, and train employees on working safely at heights.

Real-life scenario example:
Ben, a roofer in Hamilton, fell from a ladder that wasn’t secured properly during a job.

13. Fatigue-Related Errors

How it happens:
Overworked or tired employees are more prone to mistakes.

How to prevent it:
Enforce reasonable working hours, provide regular breaks, and encourage employees to take time off when needed.

Real-life scenario example:
Tom, a junior doctor in Kirkcaldy, made a mistake on a prescription after a 16-hour shift.

14. Workplace Violence

How it happens:
Conflicts between employees or customers can escalate into physical altercations.

How to prevent it:
Train employees in conflict resolution and ensure there are clear reporting procedures and security measures in place. Establish clear policies against workplace violence, provide conflict resolution training, and ensure there is a safe mechanism for reporting concerns.

Real-life scenario example:
Ella, a customer service representative in Dunfermline, was physically attacked by an angry customer during her shift.

15. Exposure to Extreme Temperatures

How it happens:
Working in very hot or cold conditions can cause heat stroke or hypothermia.

How to prevent it:
Provide appropriate clothing and ensure regular breaks in warm areas. Schedule regular breaks in controlled environments, and supply water or heating/cooling facilities as needed. Tailor your work attire according to the temperature at your site or office.

Real-life scenario example:
Noah, a scaffolder in Ayr, suffered from frostbite after working in freezing conditions without proper gloves.

16. Ergonomic Issues

How it happens:
Poorly designed workstations or tools can lead to musculoskeletal disorders.

How to prevent it:
Offer ergonomic furniture and conduct workstation assessments to fit employees’ needs. Conduct ergonomic assessments, adjust workstations to fit employees, and supply ergonomic tools such as adjustable chairs and keyboards.

Real-life scenario example:
Lucy, a designer in Kilmarnock, developed neck and shoulder pain from working on a non-adjustable desk.

17. Inadequate Training

How it happens:
Untrained employees are more likely to cause or experience accidents.

How to prevent it:
Ensure all employees receive thorough training and have access to proper supervision. Provide thorough training for all roles, conduct regular refresher courses, and ensure employees understand emergency procedures.

Real-life scenario example:
Daniel, a construction apprentice in Greenock, injured his hand using a power tool he wasn’t trained to operate.

work injury

18. Lack of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

How it happens:
Not using or having access to proper PPE increases the risk of injuries.

How to prevent it:
Supply PPE like gloves and goggles and enforce its mandatory use. Enforce the use of PPE, such as helmets, gloves, goggles, and masks, and educate employees on their proper use.

Real-life scenario example:
Megan, a painter in Dumfries, suffered from chemical burns because she wasn’t provided with gloves when using solvent-based paint.

19. Inadequate Emergency Procedures

How it happens:
Unpreparedness for emergencies, such as evacuations, can lead to chaos and injury.

How to prevent it:
Regularly conduct emergency drills and ensure evacuation plans are communicated and accessible. Develop clear emergency response plans, conduct regular drills, and ensure fire exits and first aid kits are readily accessible.

Real-life scenario example:
George, an office worker in Falkirk, panicked during a fire alarm because he wasn’t aware of the evacuation plan.

20. Poor Housekeeping

How it happens:
Cluttered or disorganised spaces increase the likelihood of accidents.

How to prevent it:
Maintain a clean and organised workplace, and establish daily cleaning schedules. Dispose of waste promptly, and establish regular cleaning schedules.

Real-life scenario example:
Isla, a retail assistant in Motherwell, tripped over an abandoned box in a stockroom aisle.

Why Prevention is Always Better

The statistics are quite sobering when viewed but behind each number is a real person. An office worker who slipped on a wet office floor and fractured their wrist, another whose back strain from improper manual handling left them unable to work for weeks, and someone who suffered severe burns due to inadequate electrical safety protocols; all have stories that highlight preventable gaps in workplace safety. The claim for such injuries can range from a few thousand pounds for minor harm to six-figure sums for life-altering injuries. However, the emotional and physical toll of these accidents often outweighs any financial redress.

The good news is that most accidents are avoidable through proper training, strict adherence to safety policies, and fostering a culture of awareness. Employers are legally obligated to provide safe working environments, and employees must remain vigilant to identify and report hazards. At its core, workplace safety is about protecting people and livelihoods. While compensation provides much-needed financial support in the aftermath of an accident, prevention is always the better strategy.

Hire Accident at Work Solicitors from Bonnar Accident Law

By addressing these common causes of workplace accidents and implementing preventative measures, businesses can create a safer environment for employees. This not only reduces the risk of injury but also boosts morale and productivity. If an accident does occur, consulting an experienced accident-at-work solicitor ensures your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation.

Understanding workers’ rights after such incidents is crucial; not just for securing compensation but also for fostering change that ensures others don’t face the same fate. But if you do get into an accident at work, call Bonnar Accident Law. Our accident-at-work solicitors in Scotland are professional experts with vast experience in getting the affected workers the claim they deserve.

We will assess your case, understand your situation, take care of the paperwork while you recover, and get you the claim you deserve for your accident at work. We operate on a no-win-no-fee basis, so you don’t have to worry about the initial payments.

Call us and let us help you!

Winter Driving Safety

Winter Driving Safety Tips: Minimising the Risk of Road Accidents

November 13, 2024/in , /by

Driving in the winter is not an easy thing to do. Drivers often face adverse road and weather conditions. Once the clocks go back at the end of October, driving can suddenly become hazardous. The winter brings with it long periods of darkness, flood, snow, fog, and other bad driving conditions.

In such driving conditions, we, at Bonnar Accident Law, advise you to not get on the road at all unless necessary.

In this guide, the road accident lawyers from Bonnar Accident Law have chalked out tips for driving in winter conditions such as snow, ice, rain, floods, fog, strong winds, and low sunshine.

Read the guide further so you can plan your road travels better and make your journeys safer.

Get Your Vehicle Prepared for Winter Driving

When autumn approaches, it’s always a good time to prepare your vehicle for the winter. Don’t wait until the last moment; as with everything, during peak season, everything you need for safe winter driving will be in demand and, in turn, expensive.

First off, get your vehicle’s anti-freeze tested. You should have your vehicle serviced completely. If that isn’t an option financially, you can at the least do the following checks:

  • All lights are clean, working, and bright enough to be visible under a thin layer of rain, snow, etc.
  • The battery of your car is fully charged and will not die out on you if you get snowed in, or get caught in a storm
  • The windscreen, all windows, mirrors, and wiper blades are clean and working, and the washer bottle is filled with screen wash
  • The tyres are in perfect working condition for winter, the tread depth is ideal, and the tyre pressure is perfect. Always do these checks on the spare tyre as well
  • Ensure that brakes are functioning properly before you get on the road
  • All the fluids in your car such as windscreen wash, anti-freeze, and oil are filled up to the right amount and correct concentration to avoid freezing

Apart from these safety checks, any road accident lawyer in the UK will tell you also to keep de-icer, anti-freeze, extra wiper blade fuses, and windscreen wash with you before winter starts.

road accident lawyers

Always Keep an Emergency Kit When Driving in Winter

As you head into winter, be prepared for any unforeseen consequences. You may get caught in a snowstorm, your car may break down during a long journey, you may be stranded on the motorway, etc. Keeping these worst-case scenarios in mind, experienced road accident lawyers will advise you to keep an emergency kit in your car, especially if you are heading on a long journey.

We understand that these may seem like excessive safety measures, but you never know when luck may not be on your side. Imagine yourself stranded in a snowstorm, a flood, a fog, etc., and you will be thankful you kept an emergency kit in your car.

A good emergency kit for the winter will include items that help you stay warm, keep you hydrated and energised to maintain body heat and let rescuers and road assistance crew find you easily.

Here are a few items you can keep in your winter emergency kit:

  • Wellington boots
  • A shovel
  • Tow rope
  • A glass-breaking tool, in case you get trapped cause of an accident
  • De-icing equipment
  • A hazard warning triangle, with blinking lights
  • A basic first-aid kit
  • A torch with fresh or rechargeable batteries
  • A car blanket
  • A set of warm clothes, one or two spare in case you have passengers or help out others on the road
  • Emergency rations, keep a flask for non-alcoholic hot beverages, energy bars, granola bars, biscuits, or whatever can help you stay energised
  • A battery bank for your smartphone should be at least double or triple the mAH of your smartphone’s battery, and charge it at home before you get on the road
  • A portable charger to charge your devices while you are moving on the road
  • A spare set of clothes to change into in case you get drenched or soaked

Keep these and you will be well-prepared for every kind of road emergency out there.

Prepare According to Your Unique Journey

Before planning a long journey or even a short sprint to a nearby village or town in the winter, always check the local news, travel bulletins, and national weather broadcasts. Check your area, the route you will be taking, and the destination you are going to. Check regularly and make a decision based on the data you see. Remember, nature is very unpredictable, the weather conditions can become adverse or even fatal within a matter of minutes.

If your local weather broadcasts or emergency services have issued a warning to not travel due to the weather conditions, then the best course would be to postpone your travel. But since individual journeys and your circumstances are yours to understand, go ahead if you must, but be careful and pay attention to how to navigate the weather conditions in winter as we have mentioned ahead.

What to Do If You Must Travel

Here are a few tips you can keep in mind if you have to travel at all costs despite the weather conditions. We, at Bonnar Accident Law, formulated these tips after a wide range of road accident claims we have handled over the years. Here goes:

  • Always let someone know the exact time you will be leaving, the expected time you will be reaching your destination, and which route you will take. In case there is no contact with you or you don’t reach your destination, your contact can inform the authorities. Decide with your contact frequent checkpoints and timestamps when you update them on how far you have covered your route. Keeping someone informed at regular intervals is a great practice in case things go south
  • Always explore all routes you can take towards your destination. Plan on pitstops where you may have to wait out the weather. Always plan multiple routes to your destination in case you have to reroute midway due to the weather
  • Fill up your fuel tank completely before heading out to ensure you don’t have to worry about running out of it. Similarly, make sure all the windows and mirrors are cleaned and cleared of any snow or ice. Make sure your heater is working properly and the car is made warm enough to keep your windscreen clear throughout. Visibility will naturally be low during adverse weather and you don’t want to be struggling with a foggy or dirty windscreen
  • Keep your mobile phone charged fully before heading out. You don’t want to run out of charge when you may need it. If you can, avoid draining your battery by putting songs on it via Bluetooth unless you are using Android Auto or Apple Car Play
  • Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. At the least, always keep an extra pair of boots, warm clothes, a torch, energy bars with long shelf life, and maybe a thermos with a warm beverage inside

Hope these small details will help you in the most critical of times.

Winter Driving Safety

Tips for Driving in Snow or Ice

Remember, if you are driving on icy, snowy, or snow-covered roads, you have to be able to manoeuvre your vehicle expertly. One small mistake can turn deadly.

Here are a few tips from Bonnar Accident Law on how to drive in snow or ice:

  • Maintain a manageable speed and never go over the speed limit at any cost. Snow and ice make the roads slippery, and that will make your stopping distance much farther than it usually is on dry sunny roads
  • Travel at a speed that gives you enough margin to stop your vehicle successfully. In ideal conditions, the speed limit is the maximum you can push, but that becomes too fast when conditions are worse, so reduce your speed accordingly
  • Don’t reduce your speed suddenly, don’t steer sharply, and don’t accelerate instantly. All of these scenarios may result in not being able to handle the vehicle you are driving
  • Brake slowly to reduce your speed smoothly and give your vehicle time to stop in slippery conditions
  • Slow down way ahead of corners and bends as not giving your vehicle enough time to stop may swerve you uncontrollably
  • Icy and snow-covered curves are extremely dangerous when braking your vehicle. If you brake suddenly or don’t give enough time to stop, the centrifugal force will spin your vehicle making it lose the already compromised grip
  • To brake successfully in snowy conditions, let go of acceleration early so your vehicle drops speed and goes into a lower gear. If brakes are needed, be gentle and press the clutch early so your vehicle’s engine doesn’t stall
  • The ideal gap between you and the next vehicle should be up to ten times the normal distance for braking
  • Even though the vehicle heater is necessary for keeping you warm and the windscreens clear, make sure that your vehicle is well-ventilated. If the inside gets too warm, it can make you drowsy and take away the critical attention you need on the road
  • If you are driving in too much snow, make regular stops at safe places to clean your wheels, lights, number plates, windows, mirrors, etc.
  • It is crucial to stay visible in snowy conditions, so keep your headlights dipped
  • Be aware of the road when driving as the road will never be uniformly wet, covered in snow, frost, ice or snow. There will be patches here and there as you drive, so one side of your vehicle may skid or slip rather than the entire vehicle. Be extra careful before, under and after bridges and flyovers

Hope these tips help you navigate the snowy and icy road conditions.

What to Do If You Get Stuck in Snow

It is very common that when vehicles get stuck in the snow, drivers try to rev up their engines to get out of the rut. This barely ever works. Instead, get your vehicle in the highest gear, and rock your vehicle back and forth till you get out of the rut. In case this doesn’t work, you can always signal for help, and ask passers-by or other road users to stop and help your vehicle out of the rut. Alternatively, you can use the shovel you brought to clear out the rut and try to get your vehicle out of it.

What to Do If You Get Caught in a Snow Drift

It is advised never to leave your vehicle. The first thing you should do is call the emergency services or breakdown services, whichever is available, and let them come and help you out. Another common mistake is when drivers keep the engine running to stay warm. Don’t do that, instead, layer up and wait for help.

When Driving in Winter Rain

If you are driving in the winter rain, Bonnar Accident Law advises you to follow the same tips we mentioned above. Since rain causes a visibility issue for most drivers, keep your wipers at the recommended speed to look ahead. Your normal braking distance will increase two to threefold your usual braking distance. Keep the windscreen wipers on, and use the washer in case the windscreen starts getting murky. Keep your headlights dipped and navigate your car accordingly. Drive slow with a safe distance so you can see the dangers up ahead and manoeuvre your vehicle likewise.

Beware of Aquaplaning

Whenever you drive too fast into a surface of water, the tyre treads of your vehicle lose the necessary grip to propel you forward. The water becomes the wedge between the tyres and your vehicle will start floating. To avoid aquaplaning, ensure that you drive slowly in the rain, have deep tyre treads, and have the right air pressure inside your tyres. In case you do face aquaplaning, ease off the brakes and the accelerator. Let the vehicle speed drop and let the tyre regain contact with the road once more. Once that happens, navigate your vehicle safely through the thin sheet of water.

How to Navigate Flooded Roads

Here are a few tips on how to navigate through flooded roads:

  • Near the kerb, the water will be the deepest, so avoid driving your vehicle through that
  • Water can be very tricky from the surface as you won’t be able to gauge the depth. If it looks too deep or you can’t assess how deep it is, don’t drive blindly into it hoping to make it to the other side
  • If the water body is too large to cross and you can’t see the other side where the road begins again, or you can’t assess how deep the water is, find an alternative route. There is no need to take your vehicle into a pool where it may get stuck and stop completely
  • If you think the water is navigable, be cautious, drive slowly and use the first gear to drive through. To avoid slipping the clutch or stalling your engine, keep the speed high
  • Approaching vehicles can cause a bow wave that will endanger both you and the approaching vehicle. Use a courteous ‘give way’ with the oncoming vehicles. Go before them or let them cross first

Always remember, once you are out of the flooded road or the pool of icy water, recheck your brakes. Sometimes being too long in the water can compromise the integrity and strength of the brakes. Don’t immediately hit the accelerator thinking to get away from it.

road accident lawyers

Tips for Driving in Winter Fog

Remember, out of all the bad weather conditions to drive in, fog is the worst. The low to almost zero visibility can quickly lead to a fatal mistake. Since most vehicles drive closely in foggy conditions, one wrong step by one driver can quickly affect all the other vehicles.

You should avoid driving in fog unless you must take that journey.

Here are a few tips for driving in foggy conditions:

  • Get updates from local weather and road authorities, and follow the guidelines given by the national or local media
  • Expect that your journey will easily take twice the time
  • Check your car condition including tyres, lights, mirrors, wipers, heater, demister, etc.
  • Keep the speed as low as possible since you need to keep the right amount of distance and visibility between you and other road users
  • If the visibility reduces, turn on your headlights or even the fog lights if necessary, but keep them low
  • If you can see the car in front of you, keep your lights low to not dazzle them, and similarly don’t use rear fog lights if you can see the rear vehicle in your rearview mirror
  • Use the windscreen wipers, heater, and demister as required
  • DO NOT rely on the rear lights of the vehicle in front of you as you will be too close to them. You have to keep in mind that the distance should be enough for safe braking. Additionally, keep your spatial awareness on the road as you wouldn’t want to bandwagon into a ditch by blindly following the vehicle in front of you
  • Do not listen to music or distracting noises. Slightly roll down your window so you can hear other traffic on the road, especially if you know or your GPS alerts you to a junction or a crossroads
  • If you suddenly see the fog clear up, don’t speed up immediately, go slightly faster than you were before. Fog drapes down in patches often, so you may suddenly get into another dense patch where a higher speed may lead to an accident
  • If your vehicle breaks down or you want to wait out a small patch of fog, always park your vehicle off the road. Never stop abruptly or anywhere on the road. Immediately turn on your hazard lights and keep them on even if you turn off your engine. You should be highly visible to anyone who is within a braking distance from you

The road accident lawyers at Bonnar Accident Law have dealt with numerous cases that happened due to fog. Be careful out there.

Tips for Driving in Strong Winter Winds

Here are a few tips for driving in strong winter winds:

  • Always hold on tight, and stay in the middle of the road or lane. Don’t drive on the edges, especially the further edge of the windward direction
  • If there is a bridge you have to cross on strong winds, go slow. If the bridge is too long and you can see it swinging and rocking, don’t go on the bridge. Stop before the entrance, park your vehicle on the side and encourage others to stop too
    If your vehicle is a high-sided vehicle such as a tall truck, don’t go out during warned strong winds

Tips for Driving in Low Sunshine Winter Months

Here are a few driving tips for low sunshine conditions during the winter in the UK:

  • During the winter months, the sun is usually too low in the sky for a visor to be effective. Don’t get blinded by the glare. Use sunglasses that are anti-glare but not too dim for you to see clearly
  • Keep your speed reduced and manageable since you want to be able to handle your vehicle in any road condition
  • You can clean your windscreen and windows from the inside and outside and keep them grease-free to avoid glares
  • If you are wearing sunglasses during the day to avoid the glare of the low sun, immediately take them off in low light conditions, especially during the nighttime. You do not want your visibility compromised by the dark tints

Hire Bonnar Accident Law for Winter Road Accidents

We hope that by following the above mentioned tips you can avoid any unwanted or unfavourable results on the road during the winter.

Should you be unfortunate to face a road accident during the winter, you can call the road accident lawyers at Bonnar Accident Law. We will help you assess your case, take care of the paperwork, and eventually get you the claim you deserve; all at no-win-no-fee!

construction site accident lawyers

Construction Safety Made Simple: Tips from Bonnar Accident Law

November 11, 2024/in , /by

The construction industry is vital to the UK’s infrastructure but also among the most dangerous. Implementing safety measures isn’t just a legal obligation but a responsibility that ensures every construction site worker returns home safely.

In this guide, we chalk out the essentials of construction safety management and offer practical advice on how to make your worksite as safe as possible.

In the unfortunate event that you find yourself in a construction site accident, construction site accident lawyers from Bonnar Accident Law can help you with the claim.

Be sure to read this guide to understand how to avoid it in the first place.

What is Construction Safety Management?

Construction safety management refers to the strategies, policies, and procedures that minimise the risk of accidents and injuries at construction sites. This involves creating a structured approach to identify potential hazards, train workers, and enforce safety standards. The aim is to prevent accidents, reduce risks, and ensure legal compliance with health and safety laws.

Implementing the Best Construction Safety Management

There are several key components to an effective construction safety management plan, and we’ll discuss the five most important steps below:

1. Identifying All Kinds of Hazards

Before any project begins, it’s crucial to identify the potential hazards on site. Hazards can be physical, like falling from scaffolding, or health-related, such as exposure to hazardous materials. A risk assessment is required at every stage of the project to spot these risks early on.

How to implement:

Walk through the construction site and create a checklist of possible dangers, then assess the level of risk each hazard poses to the workers.

2. Implementing Robust Policies and Plans

Once hazards are identified, develop the best policies and safety plans to mitigate potential hazards. These are the rules and procedures construction workers follow to ensure safety. Such policies are always clear, accessible, and regularly updated to reflect new standards or changes in the project.

How to implement:

Create detailed safety guidelines, covering everything from PPE (personal protective equipment) to emergency procedures. Communicate them exhaustively and thoroughly to all construction team members.

3. Setting Comprehensive Safety Objectives

Safety objectives are measurable targets that help ensure everyone is focused on maintaining a safe working environment. These can include reducing incidents of falls, maintaining clean work areas, or achieving zero accidents over a certain period.

How to implement:

Define specific, achievable safety goals and review them regularly to monitor progress. This ensures your safety no matter which construction site or project you are on.

4. Conducting Safety Training

Even the best safety policies are not effective if the construction site workers aren’t trained adequately. Hold regular training sessions to help everyone understand the risks and teach them the correct safety procedures. The training must be tailored to the specific hazards that you may face during your particular construction project. For example, the risks of falling and how to cater to such incidents will be useful for construction workers who work on scaffoldings day in and day out.

How to implement:

Maintain a thorough schedule of training, especially when new tasks, machinery, equipment or projects are introduced. Ensure everyone on the construction team is certified in first aid and machinery operation. Do not let workers guess their way around new equipment.

5. Establishing the Right Reporting Procedures

Have clear reporting schedules as it will allow everyone on the construction site to communicate safety concerns or report incidents and accidents promptly. Always have a channel open for everyone. Any risk should be quickly and effectively communicated to prevent future accidents.

How to implement:

Create a simple system for reporting accidents or hazards. You can use a digital app, a project management tool, written forms, or even a communication tool such as WhatsApp. Encourage workers to use it without fear of retaliation. Additionally, you can incentivize reporting by giving free snacks or points that can be availed later on for a short leave or even a day off.

construction site accident lawyers

The Most Common Safety Hazards in Construction

Understanding the specific risks at a construction site is key to prevention.

Here are the top 15 safety hazards that workers need to watch out for:

1. Falling from Heights

Falling from scaffolding, ladders, or roofs is among the top causes of construction site injuries. You may lose your balance, slip, or be improperly secured.

How To Avoid It:

Ensure that you use the proper fall protection equipment such as harnesses. All equipment such as ladders and scaffolding should be inspected regularly to ensure the nuts and bolts aren’t loose.

2. Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slips, trips, and falls are the most common hazards at any workplace, even if it isn’t a construction site. We have witnessed that anyone can easily slip, trip or fall if the surface is uneven, or if there are things like loose cables around, other reasons can be if cleanliness isn’t prioritised, housekeeping isn’t effective, or workers are careless in spilling oils, lubricants, etc and not cleaning them prompltly. These small acts of carelessness can lead to serious, often life-altering, injuries.

How To Avoid It:

Keep your construction site / work place as tidy as possible. Follow all protocols. Secure cables, and use anti-slip mats where spills are common. Practice and implement returning machinery and tools immediately after use.

3. Struck-By Accidents

Other common hazards at construction sites are being struck accidentally by a moving vehicle, falling tools, swinging machinery, scaffolding coming loose, and being nudged or bumped by someone using equipment that has a hard recoil.

How To Avoid It:

Establish exclusion zones around heavy machinery. Ensure that only the operator and relevant personnel are within that zone. Clarify movement routes around power tools and machinery being used. As a construction site worker, wear bright helmets and high-visibility clothing to stand out.

4. Electrical Hazards

Electrical hazards are common reasons for which construction site accident lawyers help you claim compensation. These can be caused by live wires, exposed circuits, improper wiring, thin wires, faulty equipment, etc. Unfortunately, if the electrical equipment isn’t maintained or operated properly, it can lead to shocks, burns, or even fatalities.

How To Avoid It:

Have a certified electrician handle all the wiring and electrical cabling at your construction site. Ensure that all electrical equipment is properly grounded and regularly inspected. Wear the right shoes and gloves that help if and when electrical hazards may happen.

5. Confined Spaces

There may be numerous tasks that may require a construction site worker to work in a confined space such as tanks, tunnels, trenches, etc. The most common injuries in such places are suffocation, toxic exposure, or even entrapment.

How To Avoid It:

Train construction site workers to effectively and safely work in a confined space. Rely on thorough procedures that help them before, during and after a task has been completed. Always have an emergency plan in place and brief them on it beforehand. Additionally, if one construction worker is in a confined space, have a spotter or supervisor look out for them from outside. This will help take action quickly in case something goes wrong.

6. Heavy Machinery Operations

Operating cranes, bulldozers, or excavators carries a high risk of injury if not properly controlled. Always have a trained and certified operator handle heavy machinery equipment and vehicles. Don’t let anyone else operate heavy machinery.

How To Avoid It:

As mentioned, only trained and certified operators must use heavy machinery. Regularly perform maintenance checks to ensure the heavy machinery is working perfectly.

7. Falling Objects

Materials and tools fall off from heights regularly when construction site workers are on scaffoldings or a higher job site. Depending on the weight and sharpness of the tool, it can seriously or fatally injure a worker.

How To Avoid It:

Use guardrails, netting, etc., to secure tools and materials when working at heights. All tools being handed manually should be secured by safety wires to the person using them.

8. Hazardous Materials

Exposure to chemicals like asbestos, solvents, or silica dust can cause respiratory problems and other long-term health issues. Sometimes these injuries can stick with you for life. A reliable construction site accident lawyer will get the right compensation for you that will ensure future ease as well.

How To Avoid It:

Ensure workers wear protective gear and are trained to handle hazardous materials safely. All hazardous materials should be disposed of properly as per the required guidelines.

9. Fire and Explosions

Faulty equipment, flammable materials, or welding work can cause fires or explosions. These are quite common at any construction site. When working with machinery and tools that cause sparks, ensure a safety zone to avoid any fire or explosion that may happen.

How To Avoid It:

Conduct fire risk assessments, keep fire extinguishers on-site, and store flammable materials safely. There should be no smoking areas in or around the construction site. Maintain a safe zone outside the construction site where open fire or smoking is allowed.

10. Noise and Vibration

Prolonged exposure to loud noises or constant vibration from machinery can lead to hearing loss and musculoskeletal disorders. Diggers and heavy drills, when used frequently and without proper breaks in between can also lead to these injuries. These may seem superficial at first but are known to cause lifelong hearing impairment.

How To Avoid It:

All construction site workers who handle equipment with loud noise and vibration should be equipped with proper hearing protection. Ensure that such machinery is well-maintained to reduce vibration.

11. Manual Handling and Ergonomics

Improper lifting techniques or repetitive movements can result in strains, sprains, or long-term musculoskeletal issues. No task at a construction site should be exhaustive or without breaks. Repetitive movements when happening without proper breaks can cause muscle sprains.

How To Avoid It:

Train workers in proper lifting techniques and provide ergonomic tools to reduce strain. Train them to use the right motion that reduces muscle fatigue.

12. Heat and Cold Stress

Extreme temperatures can lead to heatstroke, hypothermia, or frostbite. Depending on the season and conditions you are working in at the construction site, this can happen quite quickly.

How To Avoid It:

Provide breaks in shaded or heated areas. Ensure that every worker is hydrated properly. Encourage the use of appropriate clothing.

13. Biological Hazards

Exposure to bacteria, viruses, or animal droppings can result in infections or diseases. A small open wound can get infected very easily. Rust and other corroded metal piercing through the skin will cause a wound that may get infected with tetanus. Never take any open wound or cut lightly. Treat it immediately with proper medication and bandages.

How To Avoid It:

All construction site workers should wear the appropriate PPE at all times. Encourage hygiene practices and keep work areas clean. Have first-aid kits and personnel nearby to quickly treat a wound, cut, etc.

14. Collapses and Structural Failures

Improper planning, weak structures, or poor foundation work can lead to structural collapses. Scaffoldings that aren’t properly maintained may come loose and break apart. Foundations and structures that have not been load-tested may collapse when stretched beyond the required weight limit.

How To Avoid It:

Conduct thorough structural assessments and ensure all building materials meet safety standards. Ensure that only the required number of workers or the allowed weight is on the structure at any given point in time.

15. Communication and Coordination Issues

Poor communication between workers, supervisors, and contractors can lead to misunderstandings and accidents. Always have clear and precise instructions for every task being carried out at the construction site.

How To Avoid It:

Establish clear communication channels, use two-way radios when necessary, and hold regular safety briefings.

Construction site accident

How Construction Site Lawyers Can Help After an Accident

If you’re injured on a construction site, hiring a construction site accident lawyer will help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve. Construction accidents can involve complex regulations, and an experienced lawyer will understand the nuances of these cases. They will always prioritise your comfort and rights to get you the rightful compensation.

Reliable construction site accident lawyers can help by:

  • Investigating the construction site accident to determine liability
  • Gathering evidence such as witness statements and medical records
  • Negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation
  • Advising you on whether a settlement offer is in your best interest
  • Representing you in every legal interaction

5 Benefits of Hiring a Construction Site Accident Lawyer

Here are the main benefits you can get by hiring a construction site accident lawyer for your compensation claim:

  • Expertise in Construction Law
    Construction site accident lawyers specialise in the unique laws and regulations that govern the construction industry, ensuring all legal bases are covered.
  • Accurate Valuation of Your Claim
    A construction accident lawyer will calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical costs, lost wages, and future loss of earning potential, ensuring you are fully compensated.
  • Efficient Handling of Paperwork
    Any kind of legal case involves extensive paperwork which is usually tedious and full of technical jargon, and a Bonnar Accident Law lawyer will handle that on your behalf and ensure all documents are correctly filed.
  • Strong Negotiation Skills
    Insurance companies often try to minimise payouts but a dedicated and experienced lawyer uses their negotiation skills to help you secure a fair settlement, one that you deserve.
  • Peace of Mind
    When a solicitor takes up your construction accident compensation claim, they ensure you can focus on the recovery rather than worrying about how to go about the case, hence, you get peace of mind during your recovery phase.

Hire Construction Accident Lawyers from Bonnar Accident Law

Implementing the right construction safety should be the top priority. You can create a safer work environment by identifying the hazards preemptively, then setting clear objectives, and ensuring everyone is trained, protected, and safe.

If an accident happens at your construction site, contact a construction site accident lawyer at Bonnar Accident Law. We will assess your case, handle the paperwork, and get you the compensation claim you deserve; all at no-win-no-fee!