Construction seems to be constantly in progress throughout California. This includes building, repairs, maintenance and renovation. It improves the landscape and provides work for construction employees. While this is undoubtedly positive, there are still inherent dangers with this type of work.
Working at substantial heights, using complicated equipment, large vehicles and the need to trust co-workers contribute to the chance of an accident with serious injuries and fatalities. One issue that places workers in jeopardy is trench work. The possibility of a collapse is a looming challenge that should be mitigated by the construction company during the planning phase. Unfortunately, accidents of this kind still happen. Those who are impacted need to think about the future if they or a loved one are hurt in a trench accident.
Understanding trench dangers for construction workers
A recent trench collapse led to a worker being hospitalized. The project was for a sewer line. The man, said to be in his 30s, was in the trench when it collapsed. He was buried in the dirt. Emergency services extricated him and he was reportedly in critical condition. The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health is examining the circumstances of the incident.
As Cal/OSHA proceeds in its investigation, trench safety again comes to the forefront with worker risk and the potential need for workers’ compensation benefits. There are fundamentals for excavation projects and safety.
In its assessment of trench work and why accidents happen, Cal/OSHA detailed a five-year span in which more than 200 workers were hurt and 26 who lost their lives when the trench caved in. It said that the basics needed to be followed including an excavation checklist.
Falling loads are one of the main reasons for injuries and death. Therefore, workers cannot be beneath loads where digging or lifting equipment is being used. There must also be a full inspection each day to gauge possible dangers. That includes weather, water accumulation, vibrations and more.
Construction injuries have myriad implications
A construction accident can leave a worker with massive medical bills, lost wages and the inability to do the same type of work they did before. The ramifications can seep into every aspect of their life. It can be a frightening time with questions as to what the future holds.
Those in this situation should be aware of the workers’ compensation process, how to get approved and to maximize benefits. There are often obstacles with a claim ranging from disagreements as to the extent of the injuries, how long the worker will be off the job and how they are recovering. Knowing how the process works is crucial from the beginning and having comprehensive help is key.