Some of the riskiest jobs in America are within the construction industry. Topping the list of the most dangerous construction trades includes working in the construction industry as roofers, helpers, equipment operators, and construction laborers.
Every day, workers face several hazards ranging from construction equipment mishaps and falling debris.
According to research from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 1,008 fatalities occurred in the construction industry during 2018. Those statistics reveal that construction of buildings, heavy and civil engineering construction, and specialty trade construction had the most fatalities that year.
Data from a 2019 report issued by the BLS indicate that, during 2018, 195,600 construction injuries and 3,600 construction illnesses occurred. While most construction jobs have a certain level of risk, those that are listed here have some of the most fatal and non-fatal injuries, according to USA Today.
About the Most Dangerous Construction Trades
Roofers
Roofers have to deal with working in direct sunlight during the summer and working from significant heights. Because of this, there is a higher risk of slip and fall fatalities and heat-related illnesses. Throughout 2017, the roofing segment of the construction industry experienced 91 fatal injuries and 2,810 non-fatal injuries.
During 2017, statistics reveal that there were 45.2 fatalities for every 100,000 roofers. Falling, slipping, and tripping was the leading cause of fatal injury. Slipping from ladders, roofs, and scaffolding, or falls from lower levels, top the list of roofing injuries.
Helpers
During 2017, there was a total of 11 fatal injuries and 2,660 non-fatal injuries among helpers in the construction trade. While this is not the most dangerous construction trade, there are still fatal risks involving falls, slips, and trips.
Helpers are required to work under a variety of conditions in the construction industry, including working at great heights, on ladders, or on scaffolding. Out of the top-ranking most dangerous construction jobs, the second-highest fatality rate is among construction helpers. Statistics tell us that there were nearly 17.3 fatalities for every 100,000 helpers in the construction trade.
Equipment Operation
Construction operation is a dangerous construction trade that included a total of 45 fatal injuries and 2,230 non-fatal injuries during 2017. Working as an equipment operator is a big responsibility and involves many risks.
Transportation incidents are the leading cause of these injuries. Statistics further state that, for every 100,000 full-time engineers and equipment operators, there were approximately 12 deaths.
Construction Laborers
The most common fatal accidents for construction laborers during 2017 included falls, slips, and trips. Those statistics indicate that during that same year, there were 259 fatal injuries and 21,760 non-fatal injuries.
Of those fatal construction injuries, falls and trips were the cause for approximately one-third of them. During 2017, data indicates that there were 14.3 fatal injuries for every 100,000 construction laborers. Contact with construction equipment accounted for nearly one in five construction worker deaths.
Common Construction Trade Injuries
If you sustain injuries from a dangerous construction trade that was not your fault, you might be able to recover compensation. Here are some common injuries from construction accidents:
- Amputations
- Back injuries or spinal cord damage, including paralysis
- Burn injuries
- Chest injuries
- Crushing or caught in-between objects
- Cuts, contusions, and lacerations
- Fractures or broken bones
- Neck injuries
- Traumatic brain and other head injuries
This is not a complete list of the injuries you could suffer from a construction trade accident, and after any of these events, you should seek medical attention. Not only will this ensure your health, but the medical records could be used as evidence for later if you were to file a claim for compensation.
Recoverable Damages for a Construction Accident
Our firm understands the challenges families face following a construction accident. In addition to medical expenses adding up, the victim’s family also experiences the devastating impact of a loss of income. As a result, our goal is to recover the following damages:
- Workers’ compensation claims benefits.
- Damages from architects, contractors, owners, and other negligent parties.
- Compensation for emotional distress, including PTSD, depression, and anxiety, as well as pain and suffering.
- Coverage for medical expenses, including nursing care and rehabilitation.
Hiring a Dangerous Construction Trade Lawyer
If you experienced an injury while working in one of the most dangerous construction trades, we might be able to help you recover the compensation you need and deserve. Call Morelli Law Firm today at (212) 751-9800, so we can review your case today.