Did you know that 14 people died in Missouri’s 7,090 workplace injuries in January of 2023? The construction industry has inherent dangers. In fact, one in five worker deaths is in this industry.
Despite worker safety programs and OSHA regulations, workers get injured on the job. Therefore, these are the five most common injuries you should know about in construction.
Respiratory injuries
Construction sites are full of hazardous materials. Debris, silicon, asbestos and other materials can lead to respiratory illnesses by aggravating existing conditions, such as asthma, or causing new ones, including certain types of cancer. These are typically not short-term illnesses.
Lacerations
If you have worked in the industry for any length of time, you have probably received a small laceration that kept you from working for minutes to a few hours. However, serious cuts require stitches or more extensive medical care.
Fractures and broken bones
Due to the risk of falling debris and slips, trips or falls, you may receive broken bones or fractures. These injuries tend to keep you off the job for at least two weeks. However, major breaks could impact your ability to work for the rest of your life.
Sprains, strains and inflammation
Repetitive motion, heavy lifting and slips-and-fall accidents can all cause sprains, strains and inflammation. Your ability to work may become permanently or temporarily limited, and serious injuries could result in chronic pain.
Head injuries
A head wound is particularly dangerous because it can result in a traumatic brain injury. Depending on the extent of the injury, you may need weeks, months or years of workers’ compensation.
You may receive compensation for your injuries, but you will not receive it automatically. Consult with a reputable workers’ compensation attorney to get the benefits you need and deserve.
