Among the most dangerous places to work are construction sites, where daily dangers abound. Elevated work sites, heavy machinery, and electrical systems are factors that make up the risks workers face. Despite strict safety rules, accidents still occur frequently, resulting in severe and life-threatening injuries. Some of the most severe injuries construction workers sustain might have long-term consequences on their ability to work and live a regular life.
Construction site accident victims could be permanently disabled and require lifetime medical care. Many victims go to experienced construction accident attorneys to get compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Five catastrophic injuries construction site accident victims are vulnerable to are discussed below.
1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
A traumatic brain injury results from a forceful impact or jolt to the head. Typical causes of TBIs on construction sites are:
- Falls
- Falling objects
- Vehicle accidents
Cognitive problems, memory loss, and long-term disability can all occur due to these injuries. TBI patients sometimes find it difficult to go about regular activities and may need extensive rehabilitation. Others could lose their ability to work entirely.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries
Affecting a worker’s mobility and independence, spinal cord injuries can cause partial or total paralysis. Serious spine injuries can occur due to:
- Falls from heights
- Impacts with heavy machinery
- Collapsing structures
Common effects of these injuries are lifetime disability, nerve damage, and persistent pain. To restore some level of function, spinal cord injury victims may need assistive devices, physical therapy, and surgery. Many find it impossible to get back to work, which strains their finances.
3. Amputations
Accidents involving heavy machinery, power tools, and falling debris can cause workers to lose their limbs. If a limb is crushed or seriously damaged, amputation may be the only way to save the worker’s life. This kind of damage greatly affects a person’s capacity for simple chores and work-related duties. While some employees can recover mobility with prosthetic limbs and rehabilitation, the adjusting process is difficult.
4. Severe Burns
On construction sites, burn injuries could be caused by:
- Electrical accidents
- Fires
- Chemical contact.
Third-degree burns can scar, inflict extreme agony, and permanently damage tissue. Burn victims often require skin grafts, surgeries, and prolonged medical treatment.
Furthermore, burn injuries also cause infections and long-term disabilities. Those handling combustible materials and electrical wire should follow rigorous safety protocols and wear protective gear.
Furthermore, companies need to properly train their staff on how to handle hazardous chemicals. Proper training can help to reduce burn-related accidents and injuries.
5. Crush Injuries
Construction workers run the risk of being caught between moving materials, collapsing structures, or heavy machinery. Severe organ damage, broken bones, and internal bleeding can all occur as a result of these crush injuries. Sometimes, the damage is so great that multiple surgeries or amputations are needed.
Crush injuries often result in long-term physical restrictions and chronic discomfort. To reduce these hazards, workers in fields related to excavation and demolition should have appropriate training and access to safety precautions. Companies have to make sure workers know possible hazards and ensure that all work areas are stable.
