Each day in the United States, 6.5 million people work construction jobs. Unfortunately, many injuries occur during their workdays. Whether being involved in a scaffolding or trench collapse, falling from a ladder, or sustaining injuries from defective equipment, workers face these and other hazards. To learn how to be safe on your construction job, here are more details about various hazards and how to make sure you make it home at the end of the day.

Scaffolding
With 2.3 million construction workers spending part of their workday on scaffolding, it’s no wonder a construction injury attorney deals with many clients who are injured in these situations. In fact, scaffolding-related injuries account for 4,500 injuries annually, along with 50 deaths. To ensure your safety, always make sure the scaffolding is erected on solid ground, has guardrails and toeboards, and is inspected on a regular basis.

Fall Protection
Of all accidents occurring at construction sites, falls account for the most fatalities. Reasons for this can vary, and include failure to use fall protection equipment such as body harnesses, unstable work surfaces, and human error. To stay safe when working far above ground, use body harnesses that have been inspected and deemed safe. Along with this, use aerial lifts when possible, and also erect guardrail systems. If you have been injured due to a fall that happened because of defective safety equipment or other factors, contact a construction accident lawyer at once.

Trenches
Sadly, every year many construction workers are killed due to being in trenches that collapse. In most instances, this happens due to the trench failing to have protective walls, employees having no exits such as ladders or ramps, or trenches that have dangerous slope levels. To make sure you are not the victim of a trench collapse, never enter an unprotected trench, always have an exit, and make sure trenches are regularly inspected by engineers, especially after rainstorms. If you or a loved one have been involved in a trench collapse due to the negligence of others, contact a personal injury attorney in Los Angeles, such as Oscar Gutierrez.

Rather than suffer with injuries sustained due to the negligence of others, schedule a free case consultation with a construction injury lawyer Los Angeles residents know and trust, such as Oscar Gutierrez. By doing so, you can take the steps necessary to gain the financial compensation you need and deserve.