Working in construction means accepting a relatively dangerous career. Construction professionals typically have to work at significant elevations or below grade. They work with heavy equipment or in close proximity to dangerous machinery. They perform physically-demanding labor that can damage their bodies over the years.
They also often need to work even when the weather outside is unpleasant. Professionals in the construction sector may work year-round and may face a variety of safety hazards based on the weather. How can changes in the weather affect the safety of construction professionals?
Weather can affect equipment and site safety
Tools and heavy machinery may perform differently in different types of weather. Sometimes, active precipitation might make it impossible to do work that requires tools powered by electricity. Rainfall, snow or wet surfaces can also make it particularly dangerous to work with heavy equipment, including cranes and earth-moving devices.
Heavy equipment may be more likely to lose traction when surfaces are slick, and wet soil may be more likely to collapse into trenches or become compacted when construction workers do their jobs in wet weather conditions. Workers often need to be particularly cautious when working below grade or at an elevation during or after precipitation because of the risk of slipping and falling.
Wind can also be a factor that affects the safety of construction professionals. Windy weather might increase the risk of workers or equipment falling from a significant elevation. High winds may make bracing necessary to prevent items or infrastructure from sliding or collapsing during work.
Weather can cause exposure concerns
Even without precipitation, wind and changes in temperature can affect construction worker safety. Extreme temperatures can lead to heat stroke or frostbite. Workers may need to take more frequent breaks and may require protective gear and temperature-regulated spaces for their breaks.
Recognizing that on-the-job risks fluctuate based on weather conditions can help workers assert themselves after getting hurt on the job. Construction professionals injured on the job may be eligible for workers’ compensation or may have grounds for a third-party claim if equipment fails or malfunctions. Reviewing a situation – with a skilled legal team – that led to an injury can help construction workers work toward covering their medical expenses and lost wages.