How do catastrophic injuries happen at construction sites?

From heavy machinery to sharp tools, faulty equipment and electricity, there is no shortage of hazards at construction sites. If you or someone you love sustains an injury while working at a construction site, you may be eligible for financial restitution through Ohio workers’ compensation laws. 

An injury is deemed as catastrophic when it leaves the victim with life-altering complications. A catastrophic injury may leave the victim in need of life-long care, severely disfigured and totally incapable of working. Here are three construction site accidents that can lead to catastrophic injuries. 

Fall accidents

Falls, whether from elevated heights or following a trip and slip can lead to serious injuries. At a construction site, a fall can happen while a worker is using a faulty scaffold or while working on a rooftop. It can also happen when a worker is tripped by loose cables or other hazards at the construction site. Besides injuries to the head, a fall can also result in the following injuries:

• Spine injury
• Fractured or broken bones
• Internal injuries

Being struck by flying objects

From cranes to falling objects, lumber and steel rods, being struck by a flying object can lead to serious injuries, especially if the worker is not wearing the right protective gear. Depending on the severity of the impact, strikes to the head can lead to skull fracture, brain penetration or other forms of catastrophic injuries. 

Electrocution

Electrocution at a construction site can lead to serious (and sometimes fatal) injuries. Generally, electrocution can lead to the following injuries:

• Burns
• Cardiac arrest
• Nerve and tissue injuries
• Injuries from falls due to the shock

Workplace injuries happen when they are least anticipated. Find out how you can pursue compensation if you are hurt at work.