Workers in the construction industry are at risk for all types of injuries. Back injuries are perhaps the most common, with the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health reporting that one in four work-related injuries is related to the back. These injuries can range from slipped discs to fractured vertebrae and even spinal cord damage.
Other common injuries that occur on the job include repetitive motion injuries, which limit a worker’s mobility and cause pain. A construction worker may also suffer a broken bone, which can result in deformity and require ongoing medical treatment. Injuries to the eyes and ears are other common injuries, and loud noises at a construction site can result in hearing damage.
Workers are also at high risk for falling objects. Debris and tools that aren’t secured can fall and strike a construction worker below. Even hard hats aren’t always effective at preventing these kinds of injuries. Even if workers are wearing safety gear, they can still suffer serious head or spinal cord injuries.
Injuries in the construction industry can be devastating. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reports that in 2005, there were 1,224 fatalities in the construction industry. This makes it one of the most dangerous industries in the country. Injuries that happen at construction sites account for 15% of all workers’ compensation costs. If you have suffered a workplace injury, it’s important to contact a construction injury lawyer to ensure you are protected.