As Construction Work Increases, So Do The Dangers

This article from Safety + Health magazine explores the issue of increasing danger and hazards in construction zones due to the increasing demand of construction work. Although safety in construction work is the most advanced it’s ever been, there are still copious amounts of danger left to be unturned by ignorance, inexperience, and carelessness.

With the federal government making a commitment to improve infrastructure, construction employment is at the highest rate since 2008 with no plans of slowing down. This high increase in demand for contractors is making it extremely difficult for companies to hire experienced/qualified workers. Some companies are forced to hire employees fresh out of school or from different, non-similar industries.

In 2015, 937 construction workers lost their lives due to on-site injuries. Data shows that OSHA’s Construction Focus Four hazards (caught-in or caught between, electrocution, falls, struck by) was directly responsible for 602 deaths in 2015 -- 364 of those being workplace falls. This is where the big emphasis on training comes into play.

Appropriate, interactive, and thorough training can play a huge role in decreasing the number of fatalities in the construction industry. Training should be a continuous and hands-on process that could mean the difference between life and death. Ellis Fall Safety Solutions offers a number of different training programs that prepare employees and protect against on-site incidents.

Contact Ellis Fall Safety Solutions today or visit our website for more information about our training programs. Potential danger is lurking in the workplace every day, don’t wait until it’s too late.