Construction site accidents may involve tools

Construction site accidents happen for many different reasons. One of them is the tools that workers use being problematic. This can be the case for multiple reasons.

One of those reasons is that tools are not in good condition. This can be because the tools were flawed when they were first purchased, or it can be because the tools were not maintained as they needed to be. Tools should be examined for damage when they are first purchased and inspected on a regular basis to ensure that they are always in good condition or must get the repairs that they need. Damaged tools should never be used, and neither should tools that have not been inspected.

Additionally, workers on construction sites need to be trained on the proper use of the tools with which they work. They should be able to demonstrate proper use of all tools, at a high level of proficiency, to their supervisors prior to using them. Tools should only be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Workers also need to use all safety equipment every time that they are at work with no exceptions. Safety is the last place that any business should cut corners. When workers use tools and safety equipment properly, employers can reasonably expect construction site accidents to be reduced or even eliminated.

When a person is injured at a construction site, it will be very important for them to sit down with their attorney and review all of the key facts. Those facts include any tools and safety equipment used, the condition of those tools and the training given to the person using them. The workplace conditions those tools and the safety equipment were used in will also be important.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor, “Hand and Power Tools,” accessed May 20, 2016