How to avoid common construction injuries

As a general rule, your Colorado employer is required to take reasonable steps to reduce your risk of getting hurt while working on a construction site. However, there are also steps that you can take to minimize your risk of falling, being struck by an object or being electrocuted.

How to reduce your risk of falling

You can make it easier to stay upright while on the job by wearing footwear that provides adequate traction on wet, icy or oily surfaces. It’s also a good idea to make use of safety nets, harnesses and other equipment that can prevent falls from heights. Finally, it’s harder to slip, trip or fall in areas that are properly lit and free of clutter.

How to reduce your risk of being hurt by a falling object

Ideally, you won’t walk under any materials that are suspended in the air. It’s also not a good idea to walk through, drive through or otherwise enter areas of a construction site where your view is obstructed for any reason. While traveling through an active work area, be sure to wear a hard hat, goggles and other safety gear that can protect you in the event that you are hit by a falling object.

How to reduce your risk of being electrocuted

You should never approach an object that has not been properly de-energized unless you’re wearing protective equipment. If you are working on equipment that produces an electric current, be sure to adhere to lockout and tagging procedures to ensure that it can’t produce electricity when it’s not in use. In the event that you are injured after coming into contact with an electric current, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.

If you are hurt at work, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and lost wages. An attorney may be able to help you learn more about your rights, how to file a workers’ compensation claim or inquire about the status of a claim that’s currently pending.

Category:

• WORKERS' COMPENSATION