Construction work is inherently dangerous. Professionals have to handle equipment that could cause burns and lacerations. They work close to heavy machinery that could cause severe injuries. They often perform a good portion of their job functions at a significant elevation or below grade in a trench. They have exposure to chemicals and electrical supply.
There are many different injuries that construction workers could sustain on the job that could affect their ability to keep working. Some of those injuries are more likely to have long-term career consequences than others. For example, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) tend to cause permanent medical complications.
Even with the best medical care available, it is usually not possible to reverse TBIs after they develop. The symptoms possible range from issues with balance and memory to changes in personality and fine motor control. A construction professional with a TBI might not be able to return to work.
What are some of the top work-related causes of construction worker brain injuries?
Powerful vibrations
Employers often have to take steps to monitor the amount of vibration present at a construction site. Excessive vibrations can cause inflammation inside the skull and can produce brain injuries on their own. Vibrations can also exacerbate existing TBIs and may worsen workers’ pre-existing conditions. Typically, employers have to limit the overall amount of vibrations experienced by workers and may need to provide them with both respite and protective gear to limit the risk of long-term medical consequences associated with vibrations.
Falls from an elevation
When construction workers fall, they are at risk of sustaining fatal injuries. Even if they survive, the force of impact could easily produce a TBI. Workers who experience significant falls often require surgery and rehabilitative support to address their brain injuries and other traumatic injuries related to the incident. In some cases, they may never be able to return to work afterward.
Falling objects
Struck-by incidents are a leading cause of severe injury and death at construction sites. Perhaps there is an issue with a crane lifting materials. The load could come loose, and items might fall and strike workers nearby. Other times, the mistake of a co-worker could cause a struck-by incident. If employees don’t consistently use tool tethers while working at an elevation, they might drop a heavy tool that strikes a worker below them.
Workers’ compensation benefits can help cover the cost of brain injuries associated with construction work. Getting support while pursuing workers’ compensation benefits can help those who have to change career paths or accept lower wages diminish the economic impact of their injuries.