Hundreds of thousands of workers are hurt each year performing construction work.

Accidents can happen to ANYONE on a construction job.  EVERYONE should know how accidents can be recognized, and prevented.  It might involve walking a few feet to lock-out and tag a switch, get a better tool, or get a better view.  It might involve spending a few extra seconds to wait for the “walk” signal, or get a better view of the roadway in front before passing.

LOST TIME INJURIES CAN BE PREVENTED.

For example, a carpenter is hurt falling from a ladder.  What must be learned to PREVENT similar accidents?  Why did the carpenter fall?  Was the ladder improperly placed or improperly secured?  Was it defective?  Did the carpenter overreach, make a misstep, or become dizzy and lose hold?  We can ask the same questions, about other kinds of accidents in construction work.

ASK THESE QUESTIONS TO PREVENT ACCIDENTS:

Are the working conditions safe?

We can find out whether or not a ladder is safe for use by checking its construction against the requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).  We must ask whether the ladder was used in the right way.  Using the right tool in the wrong way causes some accidents.

Can the employee do the job safely?

Some workers may find working on a ladder uncomfortable or dangerous.  They may have a poor sense of balance, or fear of heights.  You should tell your supervisor when you cannot work productively and safely.