Construction sites are one of the most hazardous workplaces due to the high risk of accidents and injuries. While falls are the primary cause of fatalities in the construction industry, each occupation is faced with its unique risk for fatalities and injuries. The following 10 occupations have the highest risk for fatal injuries based on the information compiled in this data set: Construction Accident Statistics.
Construction Laborers
In 2020, 281 fatal injuries occurred in the construction labor sector. The nature of construction laborers’ work puts them at an increased risk for fatal injuries. They face various operational hazards like falls, being struck by objects, being caught in between heavy machinery, exposure to hazardous materials, and others. Ensuring proper safety measures help prevent these injuries.
First-line supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers
In the first-line supervising industry, there were 134 deaths in 2020. While first-line supervisors are critical in overseeing construction and extraction workers, their job comes with many hazards. Falls, collapsing structures, moving machinery, and electrical hazards all put employees in this industry at an increased risk for fatal/non-fatal injury.
Structural Iron & Steel Workers
Structural iron and steel workers face a significant risk of falling or getting struck by heavy materials. In 2020, 16 structural iron and steel workers were fatally injured on the job. While workers in this industry are essential in constructing tall buildings and bridges, their job puts them at great risk of getting injured. Employing proper safety measures, like harnesses, safety nets, and proper scaffolding, help protect these workers from potential accidents.
Construction Equipment Operators
Construction equipment operators experienced 69 deaths in 2020. Operators of heavy construction equipment must precisely maneuver these large machines. Any misjudgment may result in accidents that cause severe or fatal injuries.
Electricians
The complexity of electrical systems increases the risk of accidents & fatal injuries. 2020 data demonstrates that there were 61 fatal injuries in the electrical industry. The electrical industry exposes employees to hazards like electrocution and electrical burns. Proper safety regulations like wearing appropriate personal protective equipment and exercising caution help keep individuals in this industry safe.
Carpenters
In 2020, there were 45 fatal injuries due to carpentry accidents. Carpenters play an important role in constructing homes, buildings, and other forms of infrastructure. However, they work at heights on scaffolding, ladders, or elevated surfaces, which increases the risk of serious injuries.
Construction Managers
Although construction managers may not partake in physical labor, there were still 47 deaths in 2020. Construction managers oversee and coordinate various construction projects. Worksite hazards, health risks, and other accidents/injuries put them at risk for fatal and nonfatal injuries.
Construction accidents are devasting for workers, their families, and their employers. Construction companies must take proactive measures to enhance safety on construction sites in order to prevent further accidents and fatalities. Ensuring proper safety training, enforcing guidelines, and providing proper equipment all help reduce the number of fatalities.