Job site injury | 3 steps for construction crews to take after an accident Posted on February 25, 2020February 27, 2020 by Border States Construction can be a dangerous line of work. While employers aim to get workers home safe each day, accidents happen, which is why crew members should know what to do in the event of a job site injury. 3 steps for construction crews to take after a job site injury Seek immediate medical attention. Workers shouldn’t return to work right after sustaining a job site injury. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to meet with a medical professional right away. Some injuries – especially those involving the back, neck and brain – may not result in symptoms until days or weeks after the accident. Internal bleeding could also be a factor. Injuries not addressed immediately could become more serious. Report the accident. After seeking medical attention, crew members should report the incident to a managing supervisor as soon as possible. Unfortunately, some construction accidents go unreported, usually because employees fear retaliation or they don’t want the crew to be penalized by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). It’s important to remember that safety comes first on any job site. Reporting an accident alerts management of injuries sustained and lets all personnel know of potential unsafe working conditions. Document the incident. It’s important for construction workers to gather and document as much information about an accident as possible – as soon as possible. Get accounts from witnesses and, if possible, capture photos of the injury and any damaged gear or equipment (cracked hard hat, ripped vest, broken mechanical assets, etc.). Attempt to answer who, what, when, why, where and how to record a conclusive summary of what happened. Even if construction crew members take every safety precaution – such as wearing the right personal protective equipment (PPE) and following proper safety protocols – accidents can still happen. Be sure to follow these crucial steps in the event of a job site injury. Related posts Mental health toolbox talk | Promote well-being, resilience in construction Asbestos in construction | 5 tips to prevent exposure, mesothelioma
