Construction site accident

Construction Site Hazards: A Guide to Workplace Safety

December 20, 2024/in /by

Bonnar Accident Law knows that the construction industry plays a vital role in powering the UK economy, but it’s no secret that it’s also one of the most hazardous industries to work in. If you’re in construction, staying alert and proactive about safety isn’t just important; it’s essential. All construction sites are brimming with potential risks, from heavy machinery and unstable ground to moving vehicles, heavy loads, and hazardous chemicals. These dangers make construction work one of the most injury-prone professions. The good news is that most of these risks can be managed or even eliminated with the right precautions.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through 10 of the most common hazards found on construction sites, helping you stay informed and safe while on the job. As a dedicated construction worker, you will know how to go about a construction site accident lawsuit, if it ever happens.

10 Construction Site Hazards to Keep in Mind

Construction sites are full of actively working components such as workers, machinery, tools, etc. Among these, there’s a high chance an accident may befall suddenly. But if you have the potential risks outlined beforehand, you will know how to keep yourself safe.

Here are the top 10 construction site hazards we have witnessed in construction site accident lawsuits:

01. Working at Height

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), working at height is the leading cause of fatal workplace accidents in the UK. This includes any scenario where you are above ground or floor level and at risk of falling. You may fall from edges, through openings in the ground, from a scaffolding, onto fragile surfaces, or even from ground level into holes or gaps.

To mitigate these risks, thorough risk assessments are essential before any work at height begins. A well-structured work plan should be developed to either eliminate or minimise the hazards. Whenever possible, tasks involving work at height should be avoided altogether. If unavoidable, proper safety measures, such as guardrails, harnesses, and secure platforms, must be in place to protect workers.

You should be provided safety training and safety gear before you climb up onto a ladder, a scaffolding, a window cleaning crane, a crane box, and the like. You should never ascend unplanned and without the safety harness, equipment, and gear.

Real-life scenario example:
John, an experienced scaffolder, was working on a high-rise construction project. While assembling a scaffolding tower, he reached over to secure a loose plank. Unfortunately, the plank wasn’t properly supported, and as John leaned on it, it gave way beneath him. He fell over six metres to the ground, suffering multiple fractures and a severe head injury.

How to be safe:
Working at height must be carefully planned and supervised to minimise risks. Here are key approaches and precautions to follow:

  • Whenever feasible, complete tasks at ground level. For example, assemble components on the ground instead of at height to eliminate the risk.
  • Opt for equipment designed with additional safety features, such as scaffolds with double guardrails, to reduce the likelihood of falls.
  • Prepare for worst-case scenarios by installing fall-arrest systems like safety nets or harnesses to lessen the severity of injuries if a fall does occur.

Proper planning and adherence to these measures can significantly reduce the dangers associated with working at height.

construction site accident lawsuit

02. Moving Objects

Moving objects is the second leading cause of workplace fatalities, and construction sites are prime hotspots for such risks. These dynamic environments are bustling with vehicles, lifting equipment, and heavy machinery constantly in motion throughout the day.

A construction site is a constantly evolving environment, with hazards increasing as work progresses. Moving objects that may cause an accident include overhead lifting equipment, supply vehicles, and diggers. These machines and vehicles operate on typically uneven terrain, further amplifying the risks.

Real-life scenario example:
Mark, a labourer on a busy construction site, was tasked with clearing debris near a designated vehicle route. A supply truck was reversing to unload materials but, due to the site’s noise levels, the driver didn’t hear the spotter’s warning signals. Unfortunately, Mark, who was standing behind the truck, was not visible in the vehicle’s blind spot. Despite wearing his high-visibility vest, the truck struck him, causing severe injuries to his leg and pelvis.

How to be safe:
To stay safe, workers must take proactive precautions:

  • Be vigilant and always pay attention to your environment, especially in areas with moving vehicles or equipment.
  • Maintain safe distances and avoid getting too close to machinery or loads being transported.
  • Wear the right personal protection equipment (PPE) such as high-visibility jackets or vests to ensure you’re seen by operators of vehicles and equipment.

By staying vigilant and adhering to these safety practices, the risk of being struck by moving objects can be significantly reduced.

03. Slips, Trips, and Falls

Slips, trips, and falls are among the most common workplace accidents, and construction sites present an even greater risk due to their uneven terrain, partially completed structures, and scattered materials. With these hazards, it’s no surprise that such incidents frequently occur.

According to the HSE, thousands of construction workers sustain injuries each year due to slips and trips. The good news is that most of these accidents are entirely preventable with proper management of work areas and access routes, such as stairwells and footpaths.

Site managers and supervisors play a crucial role in reducing these risks. By keeping pathways clear, maintaining safe surfaces, and promptly addressing reported hazards, they can create a safer environment for workers to move around without fear of injury.

Real-life scenario example:
Sarah, a construction worker, was tasked with installing fixtures on the upper floors of a building under construction. As she made her way down a staircase to grab additional supplies, she tripped over a bundle of unsecured cables that were left lying across the stairwell. The cables, which were meant to be moved later, were not marked or secured, creating an obvious hazard. Sarah lost her balance and fell several steps, injuring her ankle and bruising her arm. The investigation revealed that the site lacked clear signage and the cables had been left in an area where workers frequently passed.

How to be safe:
Be safe so you don’t slip, trip, and fall. Here’s how:

  • For uneven surfaces, you can reduce risks by providing designated walkways, ensuring good underfoot conditions, and keeping areas well-lit.
  • Move aside obstacles and minimise trips by keeping work and storage areas tidy and designating specific spots for waste collection.
  • Avoid trips from trailing cables by using cordless tools when possible. If that isn’t possible, run the cables at high levels to avoid tripping hazards.
  • For wet and slippery surfaces, treat muddy surfaces with stone, and icy areas with grit, and always signpost slippery zones while wearing footwear with a good grip.

Be aware of your surroundings while working and keep it clean, neat and distinctly marked.

04. Noise

Construction sites are inherently noisy, with loud machinery like jackhammers, diggers, and power drills creating constant, disruptive sounds. While no one expects peace on a construction site, this noise can pose significant risks.

Prolonged exposure to loud, repetitive noise can cause long-term hearing damage, including deafness. More immediately, excessive noise can be a dangerous distraction, preventing workers from focusing on their tasks or hearing important warnings, which can lead to accidents and injuries.

Real-life scenario example:
Tom, a construction worker, was operating a power drill on a busy site. The constant noise from machinery and tools around him was deafening, making it hard for him to focus. As he drilled, he didn’t notice that a colleague was working just behind him, preparing to lift a heavy load with a crane. The crane operator, unable to hear Tom’s warning shout due to the noise, began moving the load. The crane’s load swung unexpectedly, striking Tom and causing severe injuries to his leg.

How to be safe:
Always ensure you are aware of your site and other workers, and do these to avoid accidents caused by noise:

  • Wear hearing protection and always use appropriate earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing from prolonged exposure to loud machinery and equipment.
  • Implement clear communication systems, and use radios, signals, or hand gestures to ensure effective communication, especially in noisy environments, so workers can hear important alerts.
  • Limit your exposure to loud areas. Rotate workers to reduce the amount of time spent in noisy areas, and take regular breaks in quieter zones to give your ears a rest.

A thorough noise risk assessment should be conducted on every construction site, and workers should be provided with appropriate PPE, such as hearing protection.

05. Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome

The Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is a painful and disabling condition affecting the blood vessels, nerves, and joints, typically caused by prolonged use of hand-held power tools, such as vibratory power tools and ground-working equipment. While HAVS is preventable, the damage it causes is permanent once it occurs. The HSE reports that nearly 2 million people are at risk of developing HAVS, with symptoms including difficulty performing fine tasks and painful attacks in the fingers triggered by cold temperatures.

Real-life scenario example:
David, a construction worker, had been using a jackhammer daily for several years to break up concrete on a building site. Over time, he began to experience tingling and numbness in his fingers, especially when working in colder weather. Despite these early signs, he continued to work with the vibrating tool, unaware of the long-term damage he was causing. Eventually, David found it difficult to hold onto tools and perform delicate tasks, such as wiring or small repairs, due to the loss of fine motor skills in his hands. A visit to the doctor confirmed that he had developed the Hand Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS), a condition that was now irreversible.

How to be safe:
To prevent HAVS, construction workers should be provided with proper protection when using vibrating tools, and equipment must be well-maintained to reduce vibration exposure:

  • Use vibration-reducing tools. Always opt for power tools and equipment designed to reduce vibration and ensure they are regularly maintained for optimal performance.
  • Limit your exposure by taking frequent breaks when using vibrating tools to give your hands and arms time to recover.
  • Wear the right protective gear and suitable PPE, such as vibration-damping gloves, to reduce the risk of developing HAVS.

HAVS is avoidable, so always take the right precautions to prevent it.

06. Material and Manual Handling

Lifting and moving heavy materials is a common task on construction sites, but improper manual handling can lead to serious injuries or musculoskeletal disorders. The workers must be trained in the correct lifting techniques and use lifting equipment when necessary. If lifting equipment is used, they should be trained on how to operate it safely, and competency tests should be conducted to ensure they can use the equipment correctly.

Real-life scenario example:
Mark, a construction worker, was tasked with moving heavy concrete blocks across the site. Without using lifting equipment or following proper lifting techniques, he attempted to carry multiple blocks at once. As he bent to lift one of the blocks, he felt a sharp pain in his lower back but continued working through the discomfort. A few hours later, the pain became unbearable, and Mark was unable to stand or walk properly. He was diagnosed with a severe back injury, requiring long-term treatment and rest.

How to be safe:
Always ensure you are aware of your site and other workers, and do these to avoid accidents caused by noise:

  • Use the correct lifting techniques. Always bend your knees, not your back, when lifting heavy items, and keep the load close to your body to avoid strain.
  • Make use of lifting equipment whenever possible. Use cranes, forklifts, or other lifting equipment to handle heavy materials, and ensure it is maintained and operated correctly.
  • Ensure that all workers are trained in safe manual handling techniques and the use of lifting equipment, with refresher courses as needed.

Train the construction site workers adequately to avoid accidents caused by materials and manual handling.

07. Collapsing Trenches

Trenches, especially those newly dug or in the process of building demolition, are inherently unstable and pose a significant risk of collapsing. Without proper precautions, trench collapses can be fatal.

All trenches must undergo thorough safety evaluations before use and be regularly inspected both before and during work shifts to prevent accidents. Collapsing trenches are a common hazard on construction sites, often trapping workers inside. Similarly, structures under demolition or construction can unexpectedly collapse, leading to serious injuries or fatalities for those working nearby.

Real-life scenario example:
John, a construction worker, was part of a team excavating a trench for utility installation. Despite the trench being quite deep, it was not properly supported, and the team had not received updated safety checks for the site. During the shift, the trench walls suddenly gave way, trapping John under a pile of soil and debris. Although his colleagues immediately called for help, it took over an hour to rescue John. He sustained severe injuries, including broken ribs and internal trauma, and was unable to return to work for months.

How to be safe:
Before work begins, precautions must be taken to prevent collapses. If a trench is required, site managers should:

  • Assess and implement the most suitable support for the trench.
  • Ensure the trench is properly reinforced and secure.
  • Conduct regular inspections of the trench before and during the work shift to maintain safety.

Trenches should be assessed and made safe for anyone working in it.

08. Asbestos

Asbestos was once a common building material, especially in older structures. It is a group of six naturally occurring fibrous minerals that, when disturbed or damaged, release dangerous fibres into the air. Inhaling these fibres can lead to fatal and debilitating diseases such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and pleural thickening.

Each year, asbestos kills around 5,000 workers in the UK, and an average of 20 tradespeople die every week due to past exposure. It is estimated that around 500,000 public buildings across the UK still contain asbestos.

Real-life scenario example:
A construction worker named Paul was part of a team renovating an old building. The team was tasked with removing insulation materials, but the presence of asbestos was not identified or communicated beforehand. While stripping old ceiling panels, Paul unknowingly disturbed asbestos-containing material, releasing toxic fibres into the air. Despite wearing standard PPE, Paul wasn’t equipped with the proper respiratory protection needed for working in an environment with asbestos. Over the following years, he developed respiratory issues, eventually being diagnosed with asbestosis, a chronic lung condition caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos fibres.

How to be safe:
If asbestos is suspected on a site, workers should be informed, and a professional must be called in to assess the risk. All construction workers should undergo training to understand how to manage the potential dangers of asbestos.

  • Before beginning any work on a site, ensure that a detailed risk assessment is carried out to identify potential asbestos-containing materials.
  • All workers must receive comprehensive asbestos awareness training and be equipped with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including respirators, to prevent inhalation of asbestos fibres.
  • If asbestos is present on the site, clearly mark the areas where it is located, and ensure workers are fully informed about the risks and the procedures to follow if they encounter suspicious materials.

Be safe around asbestos as it can have lifelong consequences.

09. Electricity

Exposure to live electrical parts is extremely hazardous. Harm can occur either by direct contact with live parts or indirectly through conductive materials or objects. According to HSE, around 1,000 electrical accidents are reported annually in the UK. These accidents are often caused by contact with overhead or underground power cables, as well as electrical equipment and machinery.

Electric shocks are also a frequent cause of falls from ladders, scaffolds, and other elevated work platforms. Additionally, there has been a rise in electrocutions involving workers who are not qualified electricians but are performing electrical tasks on construction sites.

Real-life scenario example:
A construction worker named Tom was assigned to install lighting in a newly built warehouse. While working on a scaffolding, he accidentally came into contact with an exposed live wire that hadn’t been properly isolated or marked. The electrical shock caused Tom to lose his balance, resulting in a fall from the scaffolding. Tom was rushed to the hospital with severe burns from the electrical shock and multiple fractures from the fall.

How to be safe:
Always handle electricity with caution. Here’s how to be safe around electricity:

  • Always ensure that electrical systems are completely de-energized and locked out before starting any work. Mark areas where live electrical parts are present.
  • Only qualified and trained electricians should handle electrical installations or repairs. Ensure that workers are not tasked with electrical work outside their expertise.
  • Workers should be equipped with proper personal protective equipment (PPE) such as insulated gloves, boots, and protective clothing when working near electrical sources or equipment.

Keep yourself and others safe from electricity-related hazards.

10. Airborne Fibres and Materials

Construction sites produce significant amounts of dust, much of which is an invisible, fine, and toxic mixture of hazardous materials and fibres. Inhaling these particles can lead to severe lung damage and diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and silicosis. The dust and airborne particles generated during construction can cause long-term health issues if inhaled in large quantities.

How to be safe:
To avoid the risks posed by airborne fibres and fine materials, do these:

  • Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as face masks or air filters, to protect against inhaling harmful dust and fibres.
  • Implement dust suppression methods, such as water spraying or vacuum systems, to reduce the amount of airborne particles during construction activities.
  • Make sure the worksite is well-ventilated to allow proper airflow and reduce the concentration of harmful airborne materials.

It is essential to use appropriate PPE, such as face masks or air filters, to protect the lungs and respiratory system.

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Key Stats on Construction Site Accidents

If you work on a construction site, the statistics make one thing clear; your job comes with a higher level of risk than most professions in the UK. From 2023 to 2024 alone, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reported 51 fatalities in the construction sector due to work-related incidents. That’s an alarming major chunk of all workplace-related deaths across the UK during the same period. There has been a slight increase in it as well since the total fatalities reported from 2022 to 2024 were 45.

But the risks don’t stop there. The overall work-related accidents from 2023 to 2024 reported 604,000 non-fatal injuries, highlighting how prevalent accidents are. Among the UK’s most hazardous industries are construction, manufacturing, agriculture, forestry, and fishing which puts construction at the top of the list for work-related fatalities. It highlights the urgent need for improved safety measures and awareness. Staying informed about these risks is the first step in protecting yourself and your colleagues.

Create a Safer Construction Site for Everyone

Building a safer and healthier construction site for everyone will minimise the accidents that happen while ensuring there are minimal non-fatal injuries as well as zero fatal ones. If the construction workers have access to proper health and safety training, they can better understand the hazards they face on the construction site. Adequate training equips construction site workers with the knowledge and skills to protect themselves and their colleagues. This fosters a safer working environment for everyone involved.

Hire Bonnar Accident Law for any Construction Site Accident Lawsuit

At Bonnar Accident Law, we’re always happy to help you with your construction site accident lawsuit. We understand that despite having the best training and safety equipment and measures around you at a construction site, you still may get into an accident.

Don’t worry, we are experts in dealing with construction site accident lawsuits. We have extensive experience in dealing with all kinds of accidents that construction site workers have faced. We know the ins and outs of getting your case prepared to get you the compensation you are owed. We will get you the compensation you deserve for the accident that you were in.

We work on a no-win-no-fee model. Once you come to us, we will take care of everything on your behalf; assessing your case, getting the paperwork done, and eventually getting you the compensation you should get for your accident. We won’t charge you anything upfront since our no-win-no-fee model lets you be worry-free in the initial stages of the compensation claim. We only take a percentage of your claim that we agreed upon with you in the beginning. We aim to keep you stress-free during your compensation claim process.

Call us today for a no-win-no-fee compensation claim!

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!

One in five construction workers at risk says UCATT

October 10, 2011/0 Comments/in , , , /by

 

(Photo: UCATT)

In a hard-hitting new report, UCATT, the Union of Construction, Allied Trades and Technicians, has found that almost one in every five construction workers is now classified as ‘at risk’.

 

Based on a review of the current enforcement regime and interviews with construction workers, ‘The hidden workforce building Britain’ says many are working in ‘slavery like’ conditions, wait in car parks to get work as day labourers and are typically employed in dangerous and unregulated work.

 

The union is calling for the creation of a single independent labour inspectorate, which would cover all industrial sectors.

 

The report argues that this beefed up body, which would police all employment standards, should have sufficient resources to dramatically increase its levels of proactive inspections. UCATT says this would ‘ensure that there is a major crackdown on exploitative employers.

 

The union’s acting general secretary, George Guy, commented: ‘It is time that government and employers accept the unpalatable truths about how the construction industry operates. Only effective regulation by a strong enforcement regime will end exploitation in the construction industry.’

 

Given this government’s attitude towards health and safety in the UK workplace and the current economic climate there is no chance of a new regulatory body being set up to monitor the construction industry labour force. This means that everyone with an interest in construction worker safety has to be extra vigilant and relentlessly ‘on guard’ to check for construction site dangers and hazards to worker’s health.

 

HSE please take note…

 

Bonnar & Company specialises in helping construction workers achieve justice and fair compensation for injury and industrial illness caused by working on site. We work exclusively on behalf of direct employees, sub-contractors, the self- employed and apprentices.

Six construction site deaths in one week

November 5, 2010/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Analysis by construction union UCATT has discovered that six construction workers were killed in the week that the Government announced it was slashing funding to the Health and Safety Executive by 35%.

With fears growing that the cuts will mean that frontline inspectors will be reduced and the recovery in construction resulting in inexperienced companies and workers entering the industry, deaths are likely to increase.

Alan Ritchie, General Secretary of UCATT, said: “Every one of these deaths was an individual tragedy. Each death underlines the dangers faced by construction workers. Sadly these risks will increase if the already low levels of inspections and enforcement activities are reduced.”

The sad statistics are as follows:

Saturday 16th October – a worker was electrocuted on a refurbishment job in Houslow, West London.

Monday 18th October – a 23 year old man, was killed in a trench collapse in Heaton, West Yorkshire.

Thursday 21st October – two workers were killed in Worlington, Suffolk when a wall on a barn conversion collapsed.

Friday 22nd October – a 65 year old man was killed in Bollington near Macclesfield, when a lorry load of bricks crushed him.

Friday 22nd October – a 55 year old man, died after falling from height in Ilkeston, Derbyshire.

The recent deaths coincided with Conservative MP Christopher Chope tabling a Private Members Bill on the back of Lord Young’s report, which would loosen the rules about reporting accidents under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations (RIDDOR). Research by Liverpool University has found that just 32% of reportable injuries of employees and 12% of reportable injuries suffered by the self-employed were recorded under RIDDOR.

We believe that the construction industry is facing a very difficult time and that worker safety is in danger of being compromised and lives put at risk. It is clear that increased vigilance is necessary to ensure safety at a time when the government is attempting to roll back regulation and weaken the existing laws. A major problem is that accidents are not being reported. Weakening the rules will make the problem worse and will further increase the danger faced by workers…a point which unfortunately has not registered with Lord Young, who seems more interested in cutting corners in the name of cutting costs. 

Bonnar & Company specialises in construction industry accidents. We offer expert legal advice free of charge to direct employees, sub-contractors, the self-employed and apprentices on FREEPHONE 0800 163 978

The shape of things to come? – £1 fine for construction site death

October 27, 2010/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Days after Lord Young’s report found that British industry is ‘burdened by unnecessary health and safety laws’, we are astounded and dismayed to learn that a Lancashire company has been fined just £1 over the death of a worker who fell 20ft when faulty scaffolding collapsed.

Peter Walton’s widow Christine said the punishment was ‘an appalling joke’. Mrs Walton is also unhappy that Howorth’s has been allowed to pay back the fine at £1,000 a month to ‘allow the company to exist’. After the sentencing she said:

“To say that I am appalled and shocked with the sentences is an understatement. Just £1 for my husband’s life is awful. Not only are the fines pitiful but it sends the completely wrong message out to the construction industry. In my opinion the system has shown that more worth has been put on preventing the firms going into administration than on my husband’s life, by imposing pathetic fines which in no way reflect the seriousness of the situation.”

The scaffolding at a development in Altham collapsed because a nut had not been tightened correctly. The court heard that other blunders included the scaffolding being erected on broken concrete, being too far from the building and not having a guard rail.

Gordon Birtwistle, Burnley MP, backed Mrs Walton and said: “The fine is an insult and makes a mockery of the prosecution. Mrs Walton has been left without a husband but this company has barely even been given a slap on the wrists.”

Glen  Mill was the principal contractor at the site and the scaffolding contractors were Howorth’s. Mr Walton, 55, of Thorton Cleveleys, had been employed by another sub-contractor, New Look. He suffered severe head injuries in the fall in May 2006 and died in the arms of his wife in hospital five weeks later. Mr Walton had been in a coma and never regained consciousness.

Last month Glen Mill managing director Peter Shearer appeared at court with Ian Howorth, boss of Howorth Scaffolding, to admit health and safety breaches. Both firms had earlier pleaded guilty before magistrates to a charge of exposing to risk persons not in their employment, in a prosecution brought by the Health and Safety Executive.

Judge Woolman said: “Glen Mill had been hit by the recession, had no real assets and had hardly traded since 2007. I am satisfied that the company does not have ready money to pay a large fine and that any fine will have to be paid out of future profits.”

The judge allowed Howorth’s to pay at £1,000 a month, to “allow the company to exist”.

After the case, HSE Inspector Ian Connor said: “This is an extremely sad case which once again shows how important it is to follow health and safety regulations. It’s vital that construction companies do more to prevent deaths and injuries in the future.”

This tragic case is a reminder that construction sites are inherently dangerous, not inherently safe and that constant care and vigilence is needed to safeguard lives.

Not only did Mr Walton die as a result of someone’s negligence, we are very concerned that the court was minded to ‘excuse’ the failures to ensure his safety at work on commercial grounds. It is extremely worrying that this attitude chimes perfectly with the approach taken by Lord Young in his report on the so-called ‘Compensation Culture’ in which he seeks to reduce industry’s ‘cost burden’ of compliance with UK health and safety legislation.

In our opinion this judgement could be the ‘thin edge of the wedge’ if courts rush to embrace the mantra that our hard-won health & safety legislation can be set aside to suit employers’ financial constraints. If this is indeed the shape of things to come, then all construction site workers in the UK are going to be placed at greater risk in the future as the industry struggles to deal with public sector budget cuts and the increasing pressure to get the job done.

When we factor in a 35% reduction in the HSE budget, which will  result in fewer site inspections and therefore greater risk of cost cutting by employers, the message being sent out here is that not only can the construction industry duck its responsibilities by pleading poverty, the chances of being caught breaching the regulations are set to reduce significantly.

Bonnar & Company specialises in personal injury claims on behalf of all construction workers. We help direct employees, sub-contractors, the self-employed and apprentices achieve justice and financial compensation. For a free, no obligation review of your claim please contact us today on 0800 163 978.