Renovating a home is exciting and transforms the space into a more functional and appealing one.
And although it doesn’t seem hazardous, if the project is more focused on building new walls, rooms, working on the exterior, and not just about replacing the furniture, there is a high risk of injury. Construction work can be really dangerous, especially when you factor in all the heavy lifting, complex machinery, sharp objects, operating in elevated work areas, and many more. Because of the high risk of injury, it is crucial to follow all the safety measures without question and to stay cautious at all times.
When you get injured while doing renovation/construction, it’s good to know all your options to regain financial stability and to recover properly. That way, the worker (injured party) can get the right medical treatment, compensation for the lost wages and therapy sessions, and long-term care if the injury was severe.
When obeying all of these rules, the outcome can be a safer work environment and reduced risk of injury.
Common Risks on Construction Sites
Because of the high/raised structures and fast-paced environment, there’s a (relatively) high chance of falls from those structures, getting crushed by large and heavy objects, electrical accidents, and others.
Here’s a quick list of common risks:
- Falls from high elevation
- Falling objects
- Crushing injuries
- Cuts, puncture wounds, lacerations
- Slip & trip injuries
- Power tool injuries
- Heavy machinery-related accidents
- Accidents due to poor supervision
- Accidents due to ignored safety protocols
- Accidents due to inadequate protective equipment
Construction sites are changing every day, and their unpredictability is making it riskier. Equipment is moved often, new structures are being built every day, and a lot of people are circulating in the area, lifting and moving objects.
Renovation often includes plumbers, carpenters, electricians, painters, and others working on the project simultaneously, increasing the risk of an accident.
With all the obstacles in the way, workers have to be aware of their surroundings, but even experienced workers are sometimes caught off guard. Heavy machinery (e.g., excavators, bulldozers, forklifts, cranes, etc.) is another factor that contributes to the possibility of an injury. That is why workers need to be skilled, properly trained, and experienced in this industry, and if you are not, you need to be supervised by an older, experienced worker. Smaller tools also pose a threat, but usually don’t cause severe injuries.
Although power saws, drills, or nail guns are all equipment often used at renovation sites, they can cause deep cuts, puncture wounds, and even permanent damage.
Falls are usually the most common factor causing serious injuries.
Workers have to operate at heights such as ladders, roofs, ferries, and scaffolds, and a single moment of distraction can cause the workers to miss a step and injure themselves.
In order to prevent serious injury from falls, there has to be a safety net, large signs, and marked areas for danger, and workers should wear protective gear.
On the other hand, electrical injuries are common as well, but not so unpredictable. These types of injuries usually occur when the safety protocols are not followed, and if the workers are not careful enough. A series of events could lead to electroshock or electrocution and end fatally.
This is why safety protocols must be followed and taken seriously.
Unlike new construction, renovation projects often lack space, which makes it even harder because there are a lot of people doing different types of work.
Legal Steps After a Construction Site Injury
If the injury occurs, based on safety protocols not being followed, you can file a claim for workers compensation after a construction accident.
The process itself can be complex, and it often involves strict deadlines and all the requested documentation, such as pictures of the accidents and the injury, surveillance video if there is one, and witness statements. Once the accident has been reported, the insurance company can initiate the claim process.
In a lot of situations, claims can be denied for multiple reasons, and that is why seeking guidance from professionals is extremely important. The legal company will explain your rights and responsibilities to you and will negotiate with the insurance company for you.
To keep things concise:
- Call a lawyer (they’ll know all these steps and will guide you).
- Report the injury immediately.
- Get medical care (if for nothing else, then for the documentation).
- Gather evidence (e.g., photos, videos, witness statements, and their contact information, etc.).
- File a workers’ compensation claim (check deadlines).
- Take care of insurance.
- Address claim denies/disputes (if any come up).
- Focus on recovery.
That way, the victims can focus on getting the proper medical care, rehabilitation, time for therapy, and other recovery activities.
Conclusion
Construction sites represent a workplace with a lot of hazards and obstacles, which is why safety protocols must be followed in order to prevent injury.
If it does happen, it’s crucial to get legal guidance with the aim of seeking compensation from the insurance company and getting financial support in order to heal physically and mentally.