Construction industry has highest rate of injury

On Jan. 29, 1970 the United States Congress and Senate enacted the Occupational Safety and Health Act to “assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women; by authorizing enforcement of the standards developed under the Act; by assisting and encouraging the States in their efforts to assure safe and healthful working conditions; by providing for research, information, education, and training in the field of occupational safety and health; and for other purposes.”

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), operating under the Department of Labor, is responsible for outlining safety standards in the workplace and enforcing those standards. The act also allows states to “assume responsibility for development and enforcement therein of occupational safety and health standards relating to any occupational safety and health issue.” However, any state plan must meet or exceed federal standards in all aspects. The OSHA commits part of its budget each year to help fund state programs.

In all, 21 states and one territory (Puerto Rico) operate full statewide programs. The remaining 29 states as well as the U.S. Virgin Islands and the District of Columbia are covered directly by the federal OSHA.

One of the most dangerous industries in terms of total injuries and lives lost is the construction industry. There are about 9 million people employed in construction – about 6% of the national workforce – but this relatively small segment accounts for 20% of on-the-job fatalities every year. According to the OSHA, construction workers face several hazards every day including:

The construction industry also has the highest “struck by vehicle” fatality rate, accounting for one in every four deaths.

Construction work does carry risks, but there are ways to manage the risks through proper building procedures and safety equipment. In the words of the OSHA: “Employers are responsible for providing a safe and healthful workplace for their employees.” The vast majority of “accidents” in construction and most other industries are a result of improper procedures or safety measures that are designed to protect the lives and welfare of its workers.

If you have been injured in a construction “accident,” chances are it was preventable. Workers’ Compensation will not fully cover the costs of your injuries or lost work, especially if your injuries are long term. And it certainly won’t compensate you for pain and suffering.

That’s why you should contact the personal injury lawyers at Jim S. Adler & Associates. We have been protecting the rights of our clients in Texas for over three decades, ensuring that they get the settlements they deserve – and securing the finances they need to cover medical expenses, long-term care, and lost work. Contact Jim S. Adler & Associates by phone or Internet to start a free case review, or click on the link here to submit your case.

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