The Most Dangerous Jobs and Workplaces for Construction Workers

While working in construction is one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States, within the industry itself there are some jobs and workplaces that are more dangerous than others.

Below are some of the jobs and workplaces that the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified as the most dangerous for construction workers in New York City and across the country. If you were injured or a family member died while working at one of these jobs or workplaces, you may be entitled to significant monetary compensation. Talk to a New York City construction accident lawyer to learn about your options in your specific case.

The most dangerous construction jobs

Demolition

OSHA defines demolition as “reverse engineering, with additional hazards. Burns, crush injuries, falling debris injuries, and electrocutions are just a few of the many hazards that demolition workers face on a daily basis. The unfortunate fact is that many of these risks could be controlled or eliminated if employers simply implemented proper safety policies and procedures.

Working at high altitude

Whether it is a house or a high-rise building, working at high altitude is the greatest risk for construction workers. Falls account for nearly 40% of all construction-related deaths, and are the cause of countless serious injuries every year.

Working with power tools and machinery

According to OSHA, nail gun injuries are responsible for approximately 37,000 people going to the emergency room each year. More than two-thirds of the people who suffer these injuries are construction workers. In addition to nail guns, there are other power tools and machinery that injure thousands of construction workers each year and leave them unable to support their families.

The most dangerous workplaces

Communication towers

Working in communication towers poses a range of potentially deadly risks throughout the year, but particularly during the winter season in New York City. When working at heights of hundreds or thousands of feet, falls, electrocutions, equipment failure and structural problems can easily cause fatal injuries.

Confined spaces

Working in a confined space – such as a sewer, a duct or a crawl space – can also be extremely dangerous. Adequate ventilation is essential, as is making sure you have the equipment, tools, training and support you need to do your job as safely as possible. Your employer must provide all of these elements before your health and safety can be jeopardized.

Construction cranes and winches

Construction cranes and derricks are essential for the construction of high-rise buildings in New York City. Unfortunately, working on these structures involves several risks. Injuries from falls and other accidents often have permanent, sometimes fatal, consequences.

Working at ground level

Finally, the fact that you do not work at high altitude does not mean that you are not at risk of injury on a construction site. Those who work at ground level often suffer serious injuries from falling objects, retreating vehicles and trucks, dangerous tools, and other causes.

What if I work on something else?

If you have other construction employment, can you claim compensation for your injuries? Absolutely. Regardless of what you do or where you have to be due to the demands of your job, if you have been injured on the job, it is essential that you speak with a New York City construction accident lawyer to protect your rights under the law.