Construction work can be dangerous, and even fatal accidents are not uncommon at building sites across the country. In Baltimore, Maryland, construction crews face hazards on a daily basis that can lead to severe injuries and deaths if proper safety precautions are not taken.
Understanding the most common causes of fatal construction accidents can help raise awareness and prevent future tragedies.
Fatal Work Injuries in Maryland
According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI), fatal work injuries totaled 80 in 2022 for the state of Maryland. This represents a slight increase from the 77 fatalities recorded in 2021. Across the United States, 5,486 fatal work injuries were logged last year, up 5.7% from the 5,190 reported in 2021. The construction industry accounts for a significant portion of these workplace fatalities each year.
In cases of negligence, the families of victims may need to consult a wrongful death attorney to hold the responsable parties accountable and pursue compensation for damages such as funeral expenses, lost income, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering.
Transportation Incidents
One of the leading causes of fatal construction accidents in Maryland is transportation incidents. This category includes accidents involving vehicles, equipment, and other modes of transportation. For example, workers may be struck by moving vehicles or heavy machinery on a job site. According to CFOI data, transportation incidents resulted in 23 of the 80 total fatal work injuries in Maryland during 2022. Proper training, visibility measures, and traffic control can help reduce these types of accidents.
Falls
Another major hazard for construction workers is falls. Falls from roofs, scaffolding, and ladders are far too common at building sites. For Baltimore, falls accounted for 10 of the fatal work injuries logged in 2022 across all industries. However, when looking specifically at the construction sector, the proportion of deaths caused by falls is significantly higher. Implementing fall protection systems, guardrails, safety nets, and proper ladder procedures can help prevent disastrous falls.
Exposure to Harmful Substances
Exposure to harmful chemicals, environments, and substances resulted in approximately 11.25% of all fatal work injuries in Maryland in 2022. For construction crews, coming into contact with toxic materials like asbestos or dangerous fumes can have devastating consequences. Proper protective equipment, ventilation, and safety training are essential to protect workers from these hazards.
Trench and Excavation Cave-ins
Trenching and excavation projects pose severe risks at construction sites if not done safely. Collapse of an unprotected trench can trap or crush workers inside. According to OSHA data, around 20 fatalities related to trenching and excavation cave-ins occur nationally each year. Using proper protective systems, sloping, and shoring can help mitigate this hazard.
Creating a Culture of Safety
Preventing fatal construction accidents requires a multifaceted approach and commitment from all levels of the industry. Both employers and workers must prioritize safety, follow standards and regulations, and speak up about hazards. By creating a culture of open communication and accountability, construction firms can significantly improve safety outcomes and reduce needless fatalities.
While progress has been made, the human cost of construction accidents is still far too high. However, through training, vigilance, and a proactive approach to risks, construction-related deaths and injuries can be substantially reduced across Baltimore and the rest of Maryland. Creating a safe work environment where no one fears for their life while earning a living should be the top priority for the industry.
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