The construction industry is notorious for being considered a dangerous profession, and one that also has a lot of myths and misunderstandings about it. The construction accident attorneys at Peter Higgins Law would like to help explain some of the facts that counteract these myths regarding the construction industry.
MYTH: Getting struck by objects is the leading cause of construction accidents on worksites.
FACT: Although getting struck by falling objects is a major hazard in terms of construction worker safety, it is not the leading cause of accidents. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls consisted of 36.9% of all construction-related deaths in 2013. Being struck by a falling object accounted for 10.3%.
MYTH: The number of construction-related deaths in the U.S. has increased in the past several years.
FACT: Contrarily, according to OSHA, workers deaths are down from 38 deaths a day in 1970 to 12 a day in 2012. The number of worker deaths might be down compared to over 40 years ago, but it’s still a major issue that needs addressing.
MYTH: Safety programs on construction worksites will solve the problem of construction-related accidents.
FACT: Safety programs are a great way to educate construction workers and help guide the way to safer worksites, but the training alone will not solve the problem. It's important that workers and contractors are doing their best every day to ensure a safe working environment for everyone involved.
MYTH: Being in compliance with OSHA regulations will guarantee safety.
FACT: OSHA only provides regulations. It's up to the individuals that are working onsite to ensure that a work zone is safe. Accidents are preventable, but it's the responsibility of the workers and their supervisors to ensure proper safety measures are always taking place.
If you've been injured on the job as the result of the work that you do, please contact the attorneys at Peter Higgins Law. We’ll fight for you to help you get what you deserve.