Construction sites are dangerous places. Every year, thousands of workers are injured in construction accidents. In addition to the physical pain and suffering, these accidents can also lead to financial hardship, as injured workers may be unable to return to work and earn a living.
Injuries and Illnesses Not Often Thought About
Construction workers are susceptible to various on-the-job injuries, some of which can be quite serious. Common construction injuries include:
- Slips and falls.
- Sprains and strains.
- Cuts and scrapes.
- Burns.
Injuries can also occur when workers are struck by falling objects or caught in between equipment or other objects. While there are many common and well-known injuries and illnesses due to the nature of construction work, there are also those that are not as commonly known.
Vibration White Finger
Vibration white finger (VWF) is a condition that can develop due to exposure to vibration. The most common symptom of VWF is a tingling or numbing sensation in the fingers, which is caused by damage to the nerves. In severe cases, VWF can lead to loss of sensation and even paralysis of the affected fingers. VWF is most often seen in workers who are exposed to vibration on a daily basis, such as those who work with power tools or machinery.
Hearing Loss
Construction workers are exposed to a variety of noise levels throughout the workday, which can lead to hearing loss over time. To protect workers, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set standards for permissible noise exposure. If workers are exposed to noise levels above these standards, employers are required to provide hearing protection devices and implement engineering controls to reduce noise exposure. However, even with these measures in place, hearing loss can still occur.
Respiratory Problems
Construction workers are at a high risk for developing respiratory problems due to exposure to dust, fumes, and other airborne particles. The most common respiratory issues associated with construction work are asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Workers who are exposed to dust and fumes on a regular basis are at an increased risk of developing these conditions.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Construction work can be a very dangerous job. There are many potential hazards that workers must be aware of, and even the most safety-conscious individual can be involved in an accident. Unfortunately, these accidents can sometimes lead to severe injuries, and in some cases, they can even be fatal.
Construction workers who are involved in such accidents may suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Symptoms of PTSD can include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and depression.
Seeking Compensation After a Construction Accident in Chicago
If you've been injured in a construction accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. The construction accident attorneys at Anesi Ozmon can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
If you have experienced an injury while working construction, contact us today at (312) 779-6610 to start your path to justice and recovering damages.