Fatalities and serious injuries

Abstract

The construction industry has major fatality problems relating to falls from heights, electrical contact, reversing vehicles, trench wall collapses, and workers being struck by falling or moving objects. Serious-injury problems relate to housekeeping, manual materials handling, direct installation activities, and on-site in-transit activities. They vary from one construction trade to another and from one type of project to another. Each of the these problems can be reduced through the application of better site management, better training, and improved work practices. In some instances, changes in materials, tools, or equipment can be beneficial in reducing the incidence of fatal or serious injuries.