Construction work is known to be risky, with injuries and deaths still happening despite safety training. Shawn Gentry, a senior loss control construction manager at Central Insurance, points out that the main causes often come down to human error and poor safety habits, rather than lack of skill or knowledge.
One of the biggest dangers on job sites is falls. In 2022, falls, slips, and trips made up over 38% of construction-related deaths, accounting for 421 fatalities in 2023 alone. Gentry says these accidents usually happen because workers take quick shortcuts, like grabbing a tool without securing themselves or leaning too far on a ladder. He stresses that safety isn’t just about training once a year. It requires a daily commitment from everyone on site—managers and workers—to check for hazards and keep work areas clean.
Besides falls, many injuries come from overexertion and muscle strain. The physical nature of construction means workers often deal with heavy lifting, awkward postures, and long hours. These injuries may not be obvious right away but can cause long-term problems. The cost to treat these injuries in construction averages about $27,000 per case, which is nearly double the cost compared to other industries. Gentry suggests treating workers like athletes by using warm-up stretches before starting work and rotating tasks to avoid repetitive strain. Using mechanical help and encouraging breaks can also reduce risks.
Being hit or caught by objects is another common hazard. Tools or materials can fall or swing unexpectedly, causing serious injuries or deaths. For instance, even a small tool dropped from a height can be deadly. Workers face risks from cranes, moving vehicles, and unsecured loads as well. Preventing these injuries means securing tools, keeping clear of suspended loads, and encouraging a culture where anyone can speak up if they see danger.
Gentry highlights that safety is everyone’s job, not just the safety manager’s. When project leaders focus on safety as part of their daily work, it becomes a shared responsibility instead of just a checklist. Sharing stories from past accidents and reporting near misses helps create a stronger safety culture. Also, making sure workers feel comfortable pausing work to use the right safety gear is key.
Beyond protecting workers, safety has a big effect on business. A company’s record of injuries influences insurance costs and whether they can win contracts. The Experience Modification Rate (MOD) measures a company’s workers’ comp claims compared to others in the industry. A score above 1.0 means higher risk and fewer chances for bids, while below 1.0 shows good safety performance and more opportunities.
Return-to-work programs are also important. They help injured workers get back on the job quickly through modified duties like cleanup or office tasks. Central Insurance offers support in this area, including 24/7 nurse hotlines and claims help, which can reduce downtime and keep costs down.
Central Insurance works closely with construction companies to improve safety, not just through policies but with real, on-site advice from experienced consultants. They also assist when injuries occur, helping workers recover and companies maintain good safety scores. Central carries a strong financial rating and aims to help contractors keep their workers safe and projects running smoothly.
In short, Gentry says being safe on a construction site isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s smart business. A strong safety culture protects workers, lowers costs, and helps companies succeed.