Construction is one of the most dangerous industries in the world. Every day, workers face life-threatening risks. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the “Fatal Four” — falls, being struck by objects, electrocutions, and being caught in/between — are responsible for over half of all construction fatalities. But the good news is that these deaths are preventable. Let’s break down the risks and how safety professionals can help prevent these tragic incidents.

Imagine you’re working on scaffolding or a rooftop, 20 feet up. You misstep, and there’s no guardrail. This terrifying scenario is the leading cause of death in construction. In 2020, falls accounted for 351 out of 1,008 construction fatalities. Roofers, in particular, are at the highest risk.

Picture a worker walking below a construction crane, unaware that a load hasn’t been properly secured. In an instant, a falling object strikes them, resulting in fatal injuries. Struck-by incidents involve tools, materials, or vehicles and are a major cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries.

Electricity is everywhere on a construction site, but it’s also incredibly dangerous. In 2019, 167 construction workers died from exposure to harmful electrical environments. Even a low voltage current can be deadly if not handled correctly.

One moment, a worker is adjusting machinery. The next, they’re trapped between heavy equipment, crushed. These incidents, which include excavation cave-ins and machinery accidents, accounted for over 2,200 deaths between 1992 and 2015 .

Preventing workplace fatalities starts with understanding the risks and acting on them. Safety professionals have a responsibility to implement the best practices and ensure all workers are trained and equipped to handle hazards. By working together, we can aim for zero fatalities. Every step toward safety saves lives.