Construction sites all over the world have one thing in common: the constant occurrence of onsite accidents. Construction equipment increases the danger present at these sites.
Most times, these accidents are caused by carelessness on the part of the workers themselves. Other times, the culprits are third parties. If your accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, the best course of action would be to visit a construction accident lawyer. Personal injury law is a broad field, which is why you should get a lawyer that specializes in your field.
In this article, however, we’re focused on the top eight construction equipment that cause injuries at the construction site.
Heavy-duty Vehicles
Regular-sized vehicles cannot perform efficiently at construction sites. This is why engineers resort to heavy-duty vehicles such as cranes, bulldozers, etc.
When these vehicles are not properly handled, it could lead to accidents, injuries, electrocution, or even the loss of body parts.
These machines are a threat to both the drivers and everyone in their path. There have been cases of these vehicles crashing, tripping, or falling over and mutilating workers.
Conveyor Belts
Conveyor belts were originally designed to move parts of equipment. However, they also double as death traps for construction workers. Many workers have lost body parts, and others have lost their lives during the operation of these belts.
Excavators
You would find at least one excavator at every construction site. The backstory that you do not know is that these excavators account for over 250 deaths around the world each year. Handling without proper training, a lack of proper safety measures, and inadequate maintenance can contribute to accidents.
Forklifts
Forklift operators are constantly exposed to muscle tissue damage. Those in the path of these forklifts stand a risk of impairment as well. Forklift accidents are not common. However, when they do occur, it’s usually a result of improper driving, overspeeding, making quick turns, or a lack of machine maintenance.
Power Tools
On a construction site, tools such as drills, saws, and nail guns are constantly used for quick and easy fixes. However, in the process of their usage, workers may end up with accidents that can leave them injured, burned, stabbed, or even handicapped for life.
Electrical Equipment
The statistics show that over 140 people die each year from electrical shocks. These victims were likely exposed to faulty wiring, naked wires, or perhaps damaged cords. Sometimes, workers unknowingly touch naked wires without protection. Electrocution can either have mild or lethal effects on the victim.
Gas-powered Generators
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a common occurrence in power plants that use gas-powered generators. Poisoning occurs as a result of inadequate ventilation or the use of these generators in confined spaces.
Trenchers
Trenchers come in handy when site workers need a vehicle to excavate and move materials. However, they also stand a risk of getting mauled, grazed, or buried by these trenchers.
Conclusion
These machinery cannot be completely removed from the site since they perform a crucial role. The best solution would be to only allow trained personnel to handle them. Also, safety precautions must be followed, and first aid kits must be in place to cater to accident victims.
