More construction workers died from struck-by injury 2011-2015 than workers in any other industry, according to a study by CPWR-The Center for Construction Research and Training.

In fact, struck-by industries account for nearly 20 percent of construction workplace fatalities. And the numbers are not moving in the right direction. There was a 2.5 percent increase in struck-by fatalities among construction workers from 2011 to 2015. And even more notable, that put 2015’s numbers at a level 34 percent higher than in 2010.

According to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, struck-by injuries are produced by forcible contact or impact between the injured person and an object or piece of equipment. Consequently, highway maintenance workers, power-line installers, and excavating or loading machine operators are at particular risk of struck-by fatality.

Unfortunately, this is tough news to swallow for an industry that already carries one of the highest levels of occupational risk. But there is something of a silver lining. According to the report, “Struck-by injuries and fatalities are preventable.”

How to Prevent Struck-By Injury

It is in the best interest of your company to keep your workers safe and healthy. Consequently, it’s a good idea to focus on preventing struck-by injury on the worksite. Among the methods and tools you can implement:

• Safety standards and regulations
• Engineering controls
• Personal protective equipment
• Safety and health training
• Backup cameras
• Highly visible clothing
• Barriers and enforcement in road construction zones
• Internal traffic control plans

In conclusion: how will you help reduce struck-by injury on your worksite?

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