The Risk of TBI in the Construction Industry

In the construction industry, the risks are high. A fall from ladders, scaffolding and more can result in serious, life-threatening injuries. Among these injuries are traumatic brain injuries. For construction workers who work with iron and steel, they are the most likely to suffer a fatal TBI from a fall.

The CDC also recognizes that workers in smaller companies are more likely to suffer from a TBI than those in a large company.

What is a TBI?

A traumatic brain injury occurs when a person suffers a blow or jolt to the head that disrupts brain function. While not all blows to the head result in TBI, some do. Traumatic brain injuries rain from mild, where a person may lose consciousness briefly and severe, where the person may suffer amnesia or an extended unconsciousness.

Why are construction workers at risk?

Construction workers may be at more risk due to their occupation and the safety measures taken. The following accidents can occur on job sites:

• A fall from a building
• An accident involving a moving vehicle
• A strike from a steel beam

To protect construction workers, awareness of safety measures and equipment is imperative. There are also phone apps that can provide visual and audio signals for safe ladder positioning. In the construction industry, correct harness sizes are necessary and so is safety rail assembly. Construction workers face risks due to the nature of the job and the equipment around them. They become more at risk for a TBI when the company or the workers do not follow through with the safety guidelines.