Construction has a reputation for being a dangerous profession – and for good reason. According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration, at least 847 construction workers died in 2014. It is the most hazardous industry in the private sector.
Construction sites are peppered with dangers. The four most common causes of employee fatalities are:
• Electrocutions;
• Falls;
• Being struck by an object;
• And caught-in/between accidents.
Construction companies must follow strict regulations to prevent injuries to workers. Unfortunately, many supervisors fail to enforce these rules – and workers pay the consequences.
Workers’ compensation is available to employees who suffer on-the-job injuries. A successful claim can pay for health-care bills and lost income, but recovering compensation is rarely straightforward. There are several reasons why an insurance company could deny a claim, and as a result, the worker could face overwhelming debt.
If you were injured on a construction site, contact the Robson Law Firm. A construction accident lawyer in Austin can investigate the accident, gather evidence and structure your claim. We have recovered more than $26 million for our clients.
Call 512-345-8200 to schedule a free initial consultation. You can also visit www.USAttorneys.com to learn more about workers’ compensation claims in Texas.
Here are four safety items that are essential on construction sites:
1. Hardhats
Your head and neck are particularly vulnerable on construction sites. Falling tools contribute to a significant number of injuries and deaths. A hardhat can also protect your head from heavy machinery and reduce injuries if you fall from a ladder or scaffolding.
2. Face Protection
Employees who work with chemicals, sparks, welding irons and other potentially face- or eye-damaging equipment must wear eye goggles and face shields. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 2,000 new work-related eye injuries occur every day in the United States. Companies have a legal obligation to ensure that the appropriate protective gear is available to workers.
3. Protective Footwear
You should purchase footwear that is designed for your specific job. On a construction site, it is best to buy heavy-duty boots with slip-resistant soles and steel toes. The fabric should be puncture-resistant.
The appropriate shoes not only can improve comfort, but they can also prevent fractured bones and toe amputation. These injuries are common due to falling objects. Protective footwear can also help you maintain grip when operating machinery.
4. Gloves
A quality pair of gloves can protect your hands from scrapes, burns, cuts and breaks. It can also prevent finger amputation.
There are several types of gloves on construction sites, and each design serves a specific purpose. Some are for welding; others are for installing insulation. When purchasing gloves, be sure to choose a design that complements your specific tasks.
If your workers’ compensation claim was denied, contact the Robson Law Firm. An Austin injury attorney can help you appeal the decision and fight for the maximum compensation. We have been representing the injured for more than 20 years. Call 512-345-8200 to schedule a free initial consultation.