Winter Weather Increases Construction Accident Risks In Washington State
November means waving goodbye to fall and welcoming another winter season in Washington State. While Issaquah is likely still a month or more away from any snowfall, residents can expect plenty of rainy, wet conditions from now until then.
Unfortunately, this, combined with shorter daylight hours, can prove dangerous for different types of workers, particularly those in the construction industry. Our Issaquah construction attorneys explain common hazards and how to reduce your risks.
Rainy, Wet Issaquah Weather Can Put Construction Workers In Danger
Construction is a lucrative career field, but it is also one of the most dangerous. The Washington State Department of Labor and Industries reports that workers in the construction industry face serious hazards on job sites.
Sadly, construction site accidents in Washington State have more than doubled in recent years and prove fatal for over 20 workers annually. Thousands of others suffer injuries severe enough to prevent them from working or engaging in even simple household activities.
If you or someone you love is in the construction field, keep in mind that the transition from fall to winter is one of the most common times for accidents to happen. Decreasing daylight hours and the chance for rainy weather increase injury risks on construction sites. Common causes of construction accidents at this time of year include:
- Wet, rusty machinery and tools, which are more likely to malfunction;
- Slick surfaces, making falls more likely to happen;
- Saturated soil, making it more dangerous to work on excavations;
- Vision impairments due to increased glare and goggles or glasses fogging up; and
- Construction vehicle accidents.
Reduce The Risk Of Construction Accidents This Winter
The National Association Of Safety Professionals (NASP) warns construction workers to be cautious when performing different tasks in the rain. Construction site owners, managers, and independent contractors all have a duty of care in protecting workers and can be held liable when injuries happen.
To reduce the risks of being injured and incurring lost wages, medical bills, and other costs, the NASP recommends following these construction site safety tips when working in wet, rainy conditions:
- Wear protective gear at all times, including hardhats and goggles;
- Wear bright-colored clothing to make you more visible to coworkers;
- Make sure you can see what you are doing and who is around you at all times;
- Be extra cautious walking around wet construction sites and when using ladders or other tasks;
- Make sure any equipment is dry and has non-slip handles or other rain-resistant features.
Injured On A Washington State Construction Site? Contact One Of Our Issaquah-Based Construction Accident Attorneys
Construction sites are inherently dangerous places. The wet, rainy winter weather and reduced daylight hours during winter increase the risks. If you or someone you love gets hurt on a Washington State construction site, Injury Law Group NW is available to help protect your rights.
We investigate what happened, identify who is at fault, and help you get the compensation needed to cover your lost wages, medical costs, and other expenses. Call or contact one of our Issaquah-based construction site accident attorneys online to schedule a free consultation today.
Sources:
lni.wa.gov/safety-health/preventing-injuries-illnesses/seasonal-safety#autumn-fall
naspweb.com/blog/precautions-for-job-site-safety-hazards-in-the-rain/
