When people think of the top risks in the construction sector, falls from elevated locations are often a concern. Falls are devastating, and they remain one of the top causes of severe and fatal injuries at construction sites. Workers above ground level should ensure they have the necessary safety equipment to minimize the risk of a fall.
However, working below grade is also a potential source of injury or worse for those in the construction sector. Trench work is often necessary when erecting new homes or modernizing infrastructure. Unfortunately, workers who are unaware of the risks involved could expose themselves and their coworkers to unnecessary danger.
Why are trenches dangerous?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recognizes caught-in and caught-between incidents as one of the top causes of construction sector deaths. In a trenching or excavation scenario, these situations often involve the movement of soil.
A wall collapses, and a worker ends up crushed. Other times, moving equipment can strike workers in trenches. They are also vulnerable to objects dropped from above. All of those hazards combined to create far higher risk than workers might realize, especially if the trench is only a few feet deep.
Employers have an obligation to provide appropriate safety equipment, including reinforcement for trench walls. They should halt trench work during times of inclement weather and ensure compliance with all trench-related safety standards.
Construction professionals hurt on the job due to a trenching incident may have grounds for a workers’ compensation claim. Reporting the incident to management, seeking medical care and talking with an attorney are all important steps for those who need workers’ compensation benefits after a construction trench accident.