Houston Construction Fall Accidents Attorney
Houston is a highly industrialized city. As Houston continues to expand both residential and commercially, construction remains a large part of Houston’s economy. Unfortunately, construction work can be quite dangerous and deadly. Falls are the most common cause of death among construction workers. More than 1/3 of all construction related deaths were caused by construction fall accidents. Falls account for about 28% of all spinal cord injuries in the U.S. These deaths and injuries are preventable.
Employers Can Take Steps to Prevent Construction Falls
Falls at construction sites can be prevented, and lives can be saved through three simple steps:
- Creating a plan;
- Providing safe equipment; and
- Training Employees on the safe use of equipment.
OSHA, The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, and National Occupational Research Agenda (NORA) advocate using these three steps to prevent falls and hazards in construction, and how falls from ladders, scaffolds, and roofs can be prevented.
Plan Ahead on Jobs to Include Safety
When working from heights, such as ladders, scaffolds, and roofs, employers must plan projects to ensure that the job is done safely. Once companies decide how the job will be done, they must also provide the necessary safety equipment. The cost of the equipment should be part of the project bid.
Provide Safety Equipment to Help Avoid Construction Fall Accidents
Construction workers who are six feet or more off the groud are at risk of serious injury or death if they should fall. To protect these workers, employers must provide fall protection and the right equipment for the job, including:
- Ladders and scaffolds
- Personal fall arrest systems
- Harnesses for each worker that will need to be tied off
Safety equipment should be inspected regularly to make sure it is in good condition and safe to use.
Train Employees and Supervisors on the Safe Use of Fall Protection Equipment
Falls can be prevented when workers understand proper set-up and safe use of equipment. Employers must provide this training to supervisors and employees. Supervisors and employees must also be trained to recognize hazards and to request the proper equipment if it has not been provided.
Houston Construction Fall Accident Attorney
When employers fail to plan for safety, provide safe equipment and fall protection, or to properly train employees and supervisors, fatal falls can happen. Falls from ladders, scaffolds, and roofs can and should be prevented. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction fall accident, contact Chelsie King Garza for a free consultation today.
