Pennsylvania construction workers know just how dangerous their jobs can be, especially when employers do not enforce safety rules. However, they may be interested to learn which rules are broken most often. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has laid out the most commonly broken rules.
Fall-protection mishaps still remain the leading cause of death for construction workers. In order to prevent falls, employers are responsible for providing guard rails, scaffolds and portable ladders. The use of faulty ladders and lack of efficient face, eye and head protection follow closely behind. Workers are required to wear hard hat protection to prevent brain injuries. Further, employers must reduce the amount of silica exposure. If the workers are exposed for lengthy periods of time, the employer must offer medical exams.
Lack of training and lack of adequate hazard communication often lead to injuries or even death. Hazardous materials are often found on construction sites. These materials can cause injuries if those hazards are not properly labeled and documented. OSHA has rules for all of these; further, there are civil penalties that employers may face if they are caught breaking the rules.
Construction workers are susceptible to incurring workplace injuries especially when employers are not up-to-date on safety. Most workers who are injured on the job are eligible to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits that can include partial wage replacement and the provision of medical care. If the injury was caused by the negligence of a non-employer third party, such as the manufacturer of a defective ladder, an attorney might find it advisable to seek additional compensation through a separate lawsuit.
