Construction can be a dangerous industry. Workers need to handle heavy machinery and materials, climb onto high scaffolds or platforms, and operate large motor vehicles. Any error or safety violation could lead to serious consequences.
Without a strong understanding of safety practices, construction workers could be at risk of serious harm. Regular safety training on construction sites can help employers prevent injuries and fatalities on the job, protecting their workforce.
Statistics on Construction Injuries and Fatalities
Workplace injuries are unfortunately common in the United States. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), approximately 2.7 million workers were injured on the job or developed an occupational illness in 2020. In the construction industry alone, there were over 174,000 cases of nonfatal injuries and illnesses.
The BLS also collects statistics on fatal work injuries. In 2020, 4,764 people died due to workplace incidents in the United States, including 1,008 workers in the construction industry. These statistics highlight how dangerous the construction industry can be.
Construction injuries in Augusta can have a significant financial impact as well. According to the National Safety Council (NSC), workplace injuries cost employers a total of $163.9 billion in 2020. That is an estimated $1,100 per worker injured. Workplace fatalities cost employers approximately $1.3 million per death.
The Benefits of Safety Training in the Construction Industry
Construction companies can significantly benefit from regularly training their employees on safety practices. Not only can this training prevent injuries or fatalities, but it can also lead to a more productive workforce.
Training Standardizes Knowledge
Regular training ensures that all employees remain up to date on safety best practices. New employees may not have this training, and older workers may need a refresher. By periodically providing this training, employers can streamline knowledge across its workforce.
Training Can Reduce Workplace Accidents
There are several steps that construction workers can take to stay safe on the job. From learning about fall protection procedures to how to properly set up a ladder or scaffold, employees can take proactive steps to avoid injury on the job.
Safety Training Reduces Costs
Workplace injuries can be expensive for businesses, leading to a loss of working hours and other costs. By implementing regular safety training, employers in the construction industry can reduce the risk of injuries and the associated costs.
Safety Training Increases Productivity
By reducing workplace injuries and illnesses through safety training, construction employers can increase productivity. Fewer employees will call out of work or need to take time to recover from their injuries.
Additionally, workers are able to navigate their job sites more efficiently if they have stronger knowledge of safety practices. If employees are constantly needing to ask for help or unsure how to proceed, valuable time could be wasted.
Injured at Work? Speak to a Georgia Workers’ Compensation Lawyer
Safety training can help prevent serious injuries on the job. However, accidents can still happen. If you are injured on a construction site, you can suffer significant losses, including medical expenses and an inability to return to work.
In these situations, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. As soon as possible following your accident, speak to an Augusta workplace injury attorney to discuss your legal options and initiate your claim.
