The construction industry is consistently ranked among the most hazardous professions in the U.S., with thousands of injuries occurring each year on job sites. While construction tasks vary by trade and project, most serious accidents fall into four primary categories: falls, struck-by incidents, caught-in-between hazards, and electrocutions.
These risks can’t be eliminated entirely, but with the right safety practices, they can be significantly reduced. Here’s what every contractor should know:
1. Falls
Falls are the leading cause of construction-related deaths. To reduce this risk:
- Always wear and properly use fall arrest equipment.
- Install and maintain guardrails or perimeter protection.
- Cover and label all floor openings.
- Use ladders and scaffolding safely and according to manufacturer instructions.
2. Struck-by Incidents
These occur when workers are hit by falling tools, equipment, or moving vehicles. Preventative steps include:
- Never position yourself between fixed and moving objects.
- Wear high-visibility clothing near operating equipment or vehicles.
3. Caught-in-between Hazards
This hazard refers to being trapped between objects or materials, often in trenches or machinery. Prevention tips:
- Never enter an unprotected trench deeper than five feet without proper shoring, sloping, or shielding.
- Even trenches under five feet may require similar safety systems, depending on conditions.
4. Electrocutions
With power tools, generators, and exposed wiring, electrical hazards are common on job sites. To reduce risk:
- Identify underground and overhead utilities before work begins.
- Maintain safe distances from power lines.
- Use grounded or double-insulated tools only.
- Install ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) on all job sites.
Staying informed and proactive is key to protecting your crew. Share these tips regularly during toolbox talks and make safety a top priority at every stage of the job.
Need help building a safety-first insurance program for your construction business? Contact McHugh Insurance Group to learn how we help protect contractors on and off the job site.