Summer Construction Safety
While summer is arguably the best time of the year for many, it is, unfortunately, the most dangerous time, especially for construction workers. Increased humidity, harsh temperatures, longer days, and scorching sun all create conditions for injuries and accidents. Construction jobs are some of the most dangerous and the summer season often makes them even more perilous. So, it’s not surprising to know that more workplace injuries occur during this season than any other time of the year.
Common Summer Worksite Injuries
Worksite injuries and accidents occur throughout the year. The most dangerous and common risk of a construction job comes from falling from slippery surfaces, collapsing scaffolding, high places, etc. However, the hot summer months have their own special risks that you should be aware of.
Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke
Heat is the primary source from which the most common worksite injuries come from. Heat related illness and injuries can be some of the deadliest. Working in the direct sun when the humidity and temperature are high, increases the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Workers on construction site must take breaks and hydrate regularly to avoid such illnesses. Some common symptoms of heat exhaustion include vomiting, nausea, cramps, and dizziness. If ignored, it can lead to heat stroke.
A CDC blog dated June 21, 2020 states that “construction workers are at risk of death, illness and reduced productivity resulting from heat exposure on the job.” The article further states that between 1992 and 2016, 285 construction workers died from heat related cases, more than one third of the U.S. occupational deaths, from heat exposure; that the exact number of fatalities is possibly undercounted due to misclassification and that 75% of these fatalities happened during June, July and August.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), many injuries are caused on construction sites during the summer season. Here are some statistics:
- 40% injuries include strains, sprains, and tears.
- 11% injuries include surface wounds, such as abrasions, scrapes, etc.
- 10% injuries include open wounds, e.g. incisions, puncture, etc.
Preventing Summer Job Site Injuries
There are a number of precautions employers and workers can take to minimize the risk of construction site heat-related injuries and illnesses. OSHA requires employers to provide shade, water, and frequent breaks to keep workers safe during the scorching summer season. Here are some recommendations:
- Stay Hydrated: As an employer, be sure to provide rehydration breaks to your workers every 20 minutes. There should also be a cool place to rest on the job site.
- Know the Symptoms: Educate workers on the symptoms of heat exhaustion as well as how they can identify such symptoms in others.
- Take Frequent Breaks: Workers, especially those who are new to outdoor jobs and those who wear heavy clothing, should be provided with frequent breaks until they adapt to working in increased humidity and heat.
According to BLS, more workers are injured in the summer months (June-August) than during any other time throughout the year. Most of these injuries or accidents are the result of a lack of enforcement of OSHA safety standards and a general lack of oversight.
Hilton & Somer, LLC: Construction Accident Attorneys serving Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.
If you have been injured on your construction job this summer, know that you may be entitled to compensation. For legal assistance, contact construction accident attorneys at Hilton & Somer, LLC. We are committed to protecting the rights of injured workers in Virginia, Maryland, and the D.C. area. You can get in touch with us through our online contact form or by calling at (703) 560-0700.
References
https://www.medexpress.com/blog/workplace-wellness/summer-on-the-job-injuries.html
https://www.forconstructionpros.com/business/construction-safety/article/21077546/constructions-top-5-summer-safety-hazards-and-what-to-do-about-them
https://www.bls.gov/
https://blogs.cdc.gov/niosh-science-blog/2020/05/21/heat-stress-construction/#:~:text=Construction%20workers%20are%20at%20risk,2019%5D
