<h2>OSHA Fatal Four Hazards in Construction</h2>
<p>The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified the four fatal hazards as the <a target="" rel="">leading causes of construction worker deaths</a>. Moreover, research from the Center for Construction Research and Training (CPWR) has found that <a target="" rel="">65 percent of construction deaths</a> are linked to these hazards.</p>
<p>Here&#8217;s a clear overview of the fatal four hazards and how often they lead to fatalities in construction, according to OSHA:</p>
<div id="attachment_81023" style="width: 710px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img aria-describedby="caption-attachment-81023" loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="size-full wp-image-81023" src="https://wp-website.safetyculture.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/08/Construction-Fatal-Four.png" alt="" width="700" height="400" srcset="https://wp-website.safetyculture.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/08/Construction-Fatal-Four.png 700w, https://wp-website.safetyculture.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/08/Construction-Fatal-Four-300x171.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px" /><p id="caption-attachment-81023" class="wp-caption-text">The Fatal Four Hazards in Construction</p></div>
<h3>Falls</h3>
<p><a target="" rel="">Falls</a> are the leading cause of fatalities in the construction industry, responsible for around 37 percent of all <a target="" rel="">work-related fatal incidents</a> in the construction sector in 2022. Workers risk falling from elevated surfaces such as roofs, scaffolding, ladders, and stairways.</p>
<h3>Struck-by Hazards</h3>
<p>Being <a target="" rel="">struck by hazards</a> is another cause of fatalities, accounting for 8 percent of construction deaths. Workers are at risk when working near moving vehicles, cranes, or heavy equipment. They can also be hit by falling objects from above.</p>
<h3>Electrocutions</h3>
<p>Due to frequent exposure to <a>electrical hazards</a>, construction workers are also at risk for <a target="" rel="">electrocution</a>, which has comprised almost 6 percent of construction fatalities in 2022. This hazard is prevalent when working with power tools or performing electrical work without proper training and precautions.</p>
<h3>Caught-in/Between Accidents</h3>
<p>Caught-in/between accidents account for 5 percent of all construction worker fatalities. Workers face hazards such as being crushed, compressed, or caught between equipment, materials, or collapsing structures.</p>
<p>[sc_cta title=&#8221;&#8221;Improve Safety in Construction Operations&#8221;&#8221; body=&#8221;&#8221;Raise the level of safety for all workers through real-time data, standardized procedures, and effective communication across multiple sites.&#8221;&#8221; btn_txt=&#8221;&#8221;Explore Our Construction Safety Solution&#8221;&#8221; btn_link=&#8221;&#8221;https://safetyculture.com/construction/construction-safety-management/&#8221;&#8221;]</p>
<h2>Safety Tips to Avoid the Fatal Four in Construction</h2>
<p>Implementing <a>construction safety</a> measures and following OSHA regulations can significantly reduce the risk of fatal accidents in construction. Here are some essential tips to keep workers safe from these occupational hazards:</p>
<h3>Minimize Fall Hazards</h3>
<p>The OSHA standard <a target="" rel="">29 CFR 1926.501</a> requires employers to provide <a>fall protection</a> for construction workers on a walking or working surface with an unprotected side or edge six feet or higher above a lower level. Adequate fall protection systems include the following:</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="">Guardrails</li>
<li aria-level="">Safety nets<a> </a></li>
<li aria-level=""><a>Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS)</a></li>
<li aria-level="">Ladder safety measures</li>
</ul>
<p>Also, proper training on correctly using fall protection equipment and maintaining a tidy and organized work environment can reduce the likelihood of fall-related accidents.</p>
<h3>Reduce Struck-By Injury Rates</h3>
<p>Heavy machinery, tools, and construction materials can become dangerous projectiles that could threaten the safety of workers. OSHA standard <a target="" rel="">29 CFR 1910.212</a> recommends that guards should be affixed to hazardous moving parts of machinery and equipment. To have an extra layer of safety, it&#8217;s essential to:</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="">Create designated storage areas for tools and materials.</li>
<li aria-level="">Secure loose items</li>
<li aria-level="">Use barricades and warning signs to keep workers from hazardous zones.</li>
<li aria-level="">Wear proper personal protective gear like hard hats.</li>
</ul>
<p>Additionally, creating a culture of identifying and reporting hazards is vital, much like what <a target="" rel="">Schindler</a> implemented in their operations. Workers should be encouraged to spot potential hazards and report them to their supervisors. Open communication and a non-punitive reporting system will contribute to a safer workplace.</p>
<h3>Reduce the Chances of Electrocution</h3>
<p>Electrocutions are a danger, especially in industries that involve electrical work. Workers can encounter live wires, faulty equipment, or unsafe electrical systems, which can lead to severe injuries or even death. The following actions can also help minimize the risk of accidental electrocution:</p>
<ul>
<li aria-level="">Follow <a>lockout/tagout procedures</a>.</li>
<li aria-level="">Regularly inspect electrical equipment.</li>
<li aria-level="">Use the appropriate <a>Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)</a> at work.</li>
<li aria-level="">Ensure workers are appropriately trained in electrical safety protocols.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Prevent Caught-in/Between Accidents</h3>
<p>Proper training and communication are crucial to preventing caught-in/between accidents. Educate workers about safe work practices, equipment operations, and risks associated with confined spaces. Regular <a>safety audits and risk assessments</a> can also identify potential hazards before they become major problems.</p>


Understanding the Fatal Four Hazards in Construction

Construction Safety

Safety

Fatal Four Hazards

One-stop shop for workplace safety equipment

SafetyCulture Care, combining risk management, tech, and insurance

SafetyDocs, trusted workplace health, safety, and quality documents

Scale with confidence and dedicated support

Browse quick guides for the SafetyCulture platform

Call, email, or chat with our friendly support team

Learn from peers, share expertise, and keep connected to product news

Find out more

See how Trackhouse Racing is driving performance on and off the NASCAR track