Citation

Helander MG. Int. J. Ind. Ergonomics 1991; 8(3): 205-223.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1991, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper analyzes statistics of fatalities and injuries in construction work. Construction work is much more hazardous than most other occupations. Most accidents involve falls of persons and occur during work on roofs, scaffolds and ladders. Collapse of structures and falling materials also account for many fatalities. Many of these accidents can be avoided by the establishment of procedures and regulations to enhance safety. Many of the safety hazards are specific to the different job classification, and typically construction workers underestimate the hazards in their own work. This affects the motivation for adopting safe work procedures. The cost of construction accidents amounts to about 6% of total building costs. There are hence forceful monetary incentives in construction safety. Hopefully, these will encourage the industry as well as agencies to invest in this area. There are several urgent needs for research.