Construction work requires skill, dedication and physical toughness. Unfortunately, it also comes with serious risks that can change a worker’s life in an instant. Learning the most common hazards and what to do if an injury happens can help you and your family.
Falling from heights
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), falls are the number one cause of construction worker deaths, with 423 fatal falls recorded in 2022. Working above ground level can cause fall-related injuries due to:
- Missing or weak safety gear
- Unstable platforms or work surfaces
- Broken or poorly placed ladders
- Bad weather that makes surfaces slippery
The effects can last long after the accident. Workers may face months of recovery or even permanent injuries. Medical bills and lost income can also put a lot of pressure on their families.
Struck-by injuries
Construction sites are busy places with lots of moving vehicles, tools and materials. Many severe and fatal accidents happen when workers are hit by:
- Tools or materials falling from above
- Vehicles moving around the site
- Swinging crane loads or excavator arms
- Stacks of materials that suddenly collapse
These accidents can cause head injuries, crushed body parts or damage to internal organs. Injured workers may need several surgeries and long recovery times to heal.
Electrocution hazards
Electricity powers most construction activities, but it also presents serious dangers. Electrical accidents can happen when:
- Workers touch overhead power lines while using cranes or ladders
- Tools or equipment are damaged or not grounded properly
- Wires are exposed on the site
- Wet surfaces come into contact with electricity
These accidents can cause burns, heart problems, nerve damage or falls from the shock. Some injuries also do not show up right away and can lead to severe internal damage that needs major medical care.
What to do after an injury
New Jersey uses a no-fault workers’ compensation system that offers employees who suffer work-related injuries access to medical care and wage replacement. These benefits ensure injured workers can recover without losing all their income.
It helps to let your employer know about the injury as soon as possible. When you report it within 14 days, the law treats your notice as timely. You might still qualify for workers’ comp if you report within 30 days, and, in some cases, up to 90 days as long as the delay does not make it harder for your employer to respond.
Seeing a medical professional early is also important, even if the injury seems minor at first. Most of the time, your employer or its insurance company chooses the doctor who provides care, though emergency treatment is always allowed.
Workers’ compensation may pay for doctor visits, cover some of your lost wages or provide long-term disability benefits if the injury causes lasting effects. If someone dies because of a work-related injury, their dependents might be eligible for death benefits.
The process can feel confusing, especially if your employer treats you as an independent contractor or denies your claim. If that happens, consulting with a lawyer could help you understand your options and figure out what steps make the most sense.