Construction Law
Improving the Quality of Your Construction Life Part 1
The common hazards, long hours, and backbreaking labor of construction make it a difficult industry to work and thrive in. That is why it is imperative that safety, health, and common sense solutions are prioritized on the jobsite. In this three-part series, a construction lawyer in Clarksville, TN, will be discussing the ways that the quality of life for construction workers can be improved. In this part, we’ll be discussing how some of the most common injuries in this industry can be avoided. In part two, we will be discussing how construction workers can remain healthy outside of work. And in part three, we will be discussing ingenious solutions that can be incorporated into workplace design.
An Industry Built on the Backs of Its Workers
The constant strain of bending, lifting, twisting, and kneeling are taking a noticeable toll on the workers of this industry. A study by The Center for Construction Research and Training shows that work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) are more prevalent in the U.S. construction industry than in all other U.S. industries combined. The main cause of these injuries was shown to be overexertion, and back injuries accounted for more than 40 percent of WMSDs.
Lift with the Knees
WMSDs must be addressed with practical solutions by your entire team. For example, there’s no need for a single person to ever risk injury with heavy lifting when their coworkers are present. What follows are only a few ergonomic solutions that can be implemented to curb WMSDs and improve your workforce’s quality of life:
- Rely on Technology: Use machinery whenever possible to do the heavy lifting.
- Steady Rotation: Rotating and sharing jobs can ensure that no single worker is doing a repetitive or exhaustive task for long.
- Proper Training: Workers should always be aware of how to safely move objects. Twisting and awkward positions should always be avoided.
- Proper Equipment: Improved tool design can lower the risk of injury and repetitive stress on a worker’s body.
- Awareness Initiatives: Many hazards can be mitigated or completely removed when they are identified, anticipated, and planned for.
The above addresses only one aspect of quality of life, but it is perhaps one of the most important. With less strain being put on their bodies, your construction workers will be able to avoid injury and have longer, more fulfilling, and less stressful careers. If you are ever concerned for the safety of your workers, please consult with a construction law attorney in Clarksville, TN. Doing so could help prevent a debilitating workplace injury or a costly Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) citation.
For information on improving the quality of life on a construction site, please read parts two and three.
If you would like to speak with a construction attorney in Clarksville, TN, please contact us today.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.