Construction remains one of the most dangerous industries in the United States, with thousands of workers suffering serious and fatal accidents each year. Understanding the most common causes of construction-related deaths can help workers, employers, and families recognize risks and take preventive measures.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified the four leading causes of death in the construction industry as the “Fatal Four.” The majority of construction accidents responsible for worker deaths are falls, struck by an object, electrocutions, and caught in or between. 5,147 construction workers died as a result of job-related injuries in 2017 – that’s more than 14 deaths every day.
Why Construction Work Is High Risk
Construction sites involve a combination of hazardous conditions, including:
- Working at elevated heights
- Operating heavy machinery
- Exposure to electrical systems
- Constant movement of vehicles and equipment
Even with safety regulations in place, these factors can lead to life-threatening incidents when proper precautions are not followed.
If you believe your employer has failed to provide adequate fall protection and promote a safe work environment, you can report your complaint to OSHA.
The “Fatal Four” in Construction
According to safety data, four types of accidents are responsible for the majority of construction-related deaths. These are commonly referred to as the “Fatal Four.”
FALLS
Falls are the leading cause of fatalities in construction. Workers may fall from:
- Scaffolding
- Ladders
- Roofs
- Unprotected edges
Proper fall protection systems and training are critical to reducing these incidents.
ELECTROCUTIONS
Construction workers are often exposed to live wires, power lines, and incomplete electrical systems. Electrocution risks increase when:
- Safety procedures are ignored
- Equipment contacts overhead power lines
- Wiring is improperly installed
Struck-By Incidents
These accidents occur when a worker is struck by:
- Falling tools or materials
- Moving vehicles or heavy equipment
- Swinging construction loads
High-visibility gear and clear site communication are essential for prevention.
If your loved one was killed in a caught in/between or another of OSHA’s Fatal Four construction injuries, we strongly advise you to contact a workers’ compensation attorney.
Caught-In or Caught-Between Accidents
These incidents involve workers being:
- Crushed between machinery
- Trapped in collapsing structures or trenches
- Pinned between objects
Proper training and adherence to safety protocols can significantly reduce these risks.
Common Factors That Contribute to Fatal Accidents
Many fatal construction accidents are preventable and often involve:
- Lack of proper safety training
- Inadequate supervision
- Missing or defective safety equipment
- Failure to follow established safety standards
Identifying these factors can help reduce the likelihood of serious incidents on job sites.
HAS A LOVED ONE SUFFERED ONE OF THESE FATAL INJURIES ON THE JOB?
As careful as workers are to avoid fatal injuries, accidents happen. In fact, more than 14 workplace deaths occur in the U.S. every day. While no amount of compensation can make up for the loss of a loved one, it’s important to be aware of the benefits available to surviving family members. By filing a death claim through workers’ compensation, a deceased worker’s dependents are eligible to receive weekly death benefits to make up for the loss of income and financial support. And during this difficult time, every dollar will help you begin to pick up the pieces.
At The Law Office of Matthew Russell, our workers’ compensation attorneys have more than four decades of collective experience representing injured workers and those who have lost family members due to fatal injuries at work. If you recently lost a loved one to a workplace accident, please call us. We’ll guide you through the legal process and fight hard to ensure you receive the maximum benefits you’re entitled to.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a construction accident, you can learn more about your rights and available benefits by contacting a Construction Injury lawyer in San Diego.
Call us today at (619) 544-1506 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.