OSHA’S “FATAL FOUR” RESPONSIBLE FOR 60 PERCENT OF CONSTRUCTION WORKER DEATHS
Florida Law Group Construction Accidents, OSHA Violations, Personal Injury, Workplace Injuries
Construction work has long been considered one of the most dangerous occupations in the country. When it comes to dealing with heavy machinery, tall heights, and dangerous chemicals, it is the sad truth that nearly 4,700 deaths occurred in 2014 alone. Many of these accidents are attributable to what the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) calls the “Fatal Four.”
What Are the Fatal Four?
According to OSHA, the following four accidents are responsible for approximately 60 percent of all deaths among construction workers:
- Caught-in or-between
- Struck by object
- Electrocutions
- Falls
Of these, falls are responsible for the vast majority of deaths. Workers are often required to work from great heights and, without the appropriate harnesses and protective equipment, falls can occur. Falls can also result from unsafe scaffolding (collapses are not uncommon) or defective ladders.
Sometimes, accidents are caused by an employer’s willful neglect of safety regulations. While OSHA does what it can to enforce its policies, the harsh reality is that many people choose not to in an effort to save money. Not only is valuing money over the safety of workers grossly unethical, but it is also punishable by hefty fines.
If you have been seriously injured in a construction accident caused by an employer’s disregard for OSHA regulations, contact The Florida Law Group as soon as possible to secure the services of a Tampa personal injury attorney. Our lawyers have extensive experience advocating for justice on behalf of injured victims. In fact, our founding attorney, Chris Limberopoulos, is Board Certified as a Civil Trial Specialist by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. You can feel confident entrusting your case to our capable team.
Allow The Florida Law Group to help you hold responsible those whose actions (or lack of action) contributed to your accident. When you choose to work with our team, you can benefit from our legal expertise as we stand beside you every step of the way. Request a free consultation today by calling 813-513-9537.