The location where people perform their jobs can contribute to injury risks. Construction professionals often work at a significant elevation. Most people recognize that falls are a major safety concern for those who work stories above the ground.
However, working below grade can be dangerous as well. Construction professionals may find themselves working in a trench. Trench work is necessary when building or repairing a foundation. Trenches also play a role in accessing, repairing or installing plumbing and electrical supply.
Construction professionals performing job tasks in trenches may face a greater risk of injury than people realize.
Trenches can be unstable
A trench is essentially a large hole in the ground. The movement of heavy machinery and precipitation can destabilize the edges of a trench, leading to a cave-in.
Employees working below grade are at risk of severe injuries, such as crush injuries, should a cave-in occur while they work in a trench. Particularly when employers do not provide trench boxes and other critical safety infrastructure, workers in trenches are vulnerable.
Dropped items are also a risk
Gravity-related incidents don’t only occur at significant elevations. They may also impact workers below grade. An employee at ground level could trip and fall into a trench, striking their coworkers. Dropped tools or materials could also cause struck-by incidents that injure professionals in trenches.
Construction professionals hurt in trench-related incidents may require medical care and a leave of absence as they heal from their injuries. Filing a workers’ compensation claim can help injured construction professionals cover their losses and secure the support they need to return to work as soon as possible.
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