Top Four Construction Hazards and How to Prevent Them

Key Takeaways

• “Fatal Four” hazards (falls, struck-by, caught in between, and electrocutions) cause over half of all construction fatalities, making them among the most critical exposures for employers to address.
• Many Fatal Four incidents may be preventable with basic controls like fall arrest systems, trench protection, equipment visibility, and safe distance electrical practices.
• Daily situational awareness and competent person oversight play a major role in helping reduce risk, especially for trench work, elevated tasks, and equipment movement.
• Proactive planning—identifying utilities, marking hazards, securing openings, and enforcing PPE—can help create safer job sites and help protect workers, schedules, and budgets.

Construction is a rewarding career, but it also comes with significant risks. The construction industry is one of the most hazardous in the United States, and injuries often occur from just a few common hazards. Understanding these risks and how to prevent them can help protect employees, projects, and your bottom line.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the four most frequent construction hazards are falls, struck-by incidents, caught-in-between hazards, and electrocutions. Here’s how construction teams can reduce risk and stay safe on the job site.

How Can Construction Workers Help Prevent Falls?

Falls are a leading cause of construction workplace injuries. To help reduce that risk:

• Wear and properly use fall arrest equipment.
• Install and maintain perimeter protection.
• Cover and secure all floor openings and clearly label floor opening covers.
• Use ladders and scaffolds safely, following manufacturer and site guidelines.

How Can Construction Workers Help Prevent Struck-by Incidents?

Struck-by accidents occur when a worker is hit by a moving or falling object. To help protect your team:

• Avoid positioning yourself between moving and fixed objects.
• Wear high-visibility clothing near equipment and vehicles so others can see you clearly.

How Can Workers Help Prevent Caught-in-Between Hazards?

Caught-in-between incidents happen when a worker is trapped between equipment or materials. To help prevent these injuries:

• Never enter an unprotected trench or excavation five feet or deeper without an adequate protective system.
• Smaller trenches may also require protection depending on site conditions.
• Help ensure trenches or excavations are protected using sloping, shoring, benching, or trench shield systems.

How Can Workers Help Prevent Electrocutions?

Electrocution is a serious risk on construction sites. Key safety practices include:

• Locate and identify utilities before starting work each day.
• Watch for overhead power lines when operating equipment.
• Maintain safe distances from power lines and follow local distance requirements.
• Use grounded or double-insulated portable electric tools.
• Employ ground-fault circuit interrupters for additional protection.
• Stay alert to electrical hazards when working on ladders, scaffolds, or elevated platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of construction fatalities do the Fatal Four cause?

The Fatal Four (falls, struck-by, caught-in/between, electrocutions) account for more than 60% of construction worker deaths in 2022. Falls alone make up more than one-third of all construction fatalities, making them the leading cause of death in the industry, according to CPWR, an OSHA-funded research organization.

At what trench depth is protective equipment required?

OSHA requires protective systems for trenches 5 feet or deeper. Trenches below 5 feet may also require protection if a competent person identifies hazardous conditions such as unstable soil or water accumulation, or proximity to heavy equipment.

What is the required safe distance from power lines?

OSHA requires a minimum clearance of 10 feet from power lines up to 50 kV. For lines above 50 kV, add 4 inches for every 10 kV. However, local regulations may require greater distances. Always identify power line locations before work begins and use a spotter when operating equipment near overhead lines.

Staying Safe on the Job

By recognizing these common hazards and following basic safety practices, construction teams can help reduce injuries and protect both employees and projects. A proactive approach to job site safety contributes to a more productive and stable work environment.

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