Electricity is one of the most significant safety hazards at any construction site. Workers who end up having unprotected exposure to electricity may experience severe burns or electrocution. In some cases, workers sustain debilitating injuries because of electrocution. Other times, electrical shock may cause secondary injuries because they fall or temporarily lose control of their bodies.
Typically, construction companies should take great care to properly train workers about electrocution risks and to adhere to all safety regulations at job sites. Unfortunately, electrocution remains a leading cause of injury and death among construction workers. The three sources of electrocution below feature prominently in reports about construction worker electrical injuries.
Temporary electrical supply
Many construction sites require arrangements to provide temporary electrical supply during the project. Companies may fill that need by using generators or running temporary supply lines. Installing temporary electrical supply or working in close proximity to it can lead to worker injuries in many cases. Flexible power cords can come loose, and many other issues can arise that may lead to electrical shock or electrocution for nearby employees.
Handling power tools
Heavy equipment that runs on electricity may play an important role in different aspects of the construction process. Professionals can be at risk when the tools and machinery they use short out without warning. Other times, frayed wires or loose connections might lead to electrocution for the worker handling the power tool or someone near them.
Installing electrical supply
The process of installing wiring at an electrical site can be dangerous. Especially in cases where there may be live power to the building, all it takes is one worker flipping a breaker they shouldn’t for others to end up sustaining life-endangering injuries. Many construction projects often involve installing or updating wires, and any workers nearby during that process are at risk of injury or worse. Employers can protect workers by carefully adhering to workplace safety standards, providing appropriate training and using licensed professionals for safety-critical processes.
Injured construction workers may need assistance pursuing workers’ compensation and other benefits following an electrocution incident. Filing a claim for benefits can help workers pay for their care and replace lost wages until they can return to work.