Preventing Falls At Ohio Construction Sites

Construction can be dangerous work, but it is possible, with effort, to eliminate unnecessary risks and protect the men and women who work on job sites. Employers bear the responsibility of making projects as safe as possible, and one of the ways to do this is by working to prevent falls on construction sites.

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in the construction industry. Fortunately, falls are preventable, and with the right training and protection, Ohio employers can save lives. If you suffered an injury on a construction site because you fell from a height, you have certain rights, including the right to recovery and medical care.

How to reduce the number of job site falls

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there are certain steps that can greatly reduce the risk of falls and the number of incidents that result in injury or death. These include:

• Plan: Through careful planning and preparation, it is possible to reduce falls. Safety planning is a critical component of job site preparation. This includes considering all safety equipment needed for the entire project, start to finish.
• Provide: Safety planning does little good if it does not translate into actual safety measures on the job site. Employers should provide adequate safety gear in order to ensure that falls do not occur. Fall protection gear can include scaffolds, harnesses, and ladders.
• Train: All construction site workers should receive adequate training in order to use safety equipment correctly. Training for this, as well as to recognize hazards and risks, can go a long way toward reducing fall-related injuries.

With these simple steps, it may be possible to avoid problems and reduce the number of falls. Construction work is an inherently dangerous job, and those who work on these types of job sites have the right to a reasonably safe workplace and proper safety training.

What to do after a fall

If you fell while working on a job site, you have options. After reporting the accident, you may find great benefit in seeking the support of an attorney who can help you complete a workers’ compensation claim and secure the medical treatment you need. Even if you are unsure of the validity of a potential claim or unclear on your entitlements as an injured worker, you have the right to know your options.

Securing your rightful workers’ compensation benefits could be complicated, and you may face delays or a denial. Fortunately, you do not have to navigate this process alone. With the help of your experienced legal ally, you may find that it is easier to secure the money you need after a construction site fall.