If you work in construction, you understand how dangerous the job can be. In 2018, there were three nonfatal injuries or illnesses per every 100 construction workers nationwide, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

If an injury happens to you, your whole family might feel the impact. Being injured on the job limits your ability to take care of your household and can severely impact your lifestyle. You owe it to your family to be sure you are getting everything you deserve from your workers’ compensation claim. Empower yourself with knowledge about work-related injuries common in the construction industry. 

Accidents 

Falls are, by far, the most frequent cause of work-related deaths and injuries on construction sites. Yet, falling from a height is not the only hazard. As a construction laborer or contractor, you are also at risk of electrocution. Heavy objects may strike you. Structures may collapse on top of you. Equipment or machinery may crush you. Accidents can result in serious injuries, such as cuts, burns, broken bones, spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injury. 

Repetitive Motion Injuries 

When you perform the same physical motions many times, your muscles and joints can pay the price. Your construction job likely requires bending, twisting and lifting heavy objects, which can take a toll on your spine. Constantly gripping power tools may result in harm to your wrists, arms and shoulders. 

Occupational Diseases 

Some construction work-related ailments are not injuries at all: They are occupational illnesses or diseases. You may experience contact dermatitis, a skin reaction to hazardous chemicals. Construction materials such as solvents, cleaning agents or adhesives may be at fault. If you inhale certain chemicals or dust over long periods of time, you may end up with respiratory issues such as asthma. Asthma is preventable, but medical professionals often overlook early symptoms. Untreated asthma can result in decreased work productivity and a decline in your quality of life.