The 10 Most Common Construction Site Injuries (And How to Prevent Them)

The Short Answer: Construction site injuries range from falls and struck-by incidents to overexertion and exposure to extreme temperatures. While every jobsite presents unique hazards, most construction site accidents are preventable through proactive safety measures, proper training, and reliable protective equipment.

Construction ranks among the most physically demanding and hazardous industries. Each year, thousands of construction workers suffer serious injuries from falls, heavy machinery, power tools, and other jobsite hazards. OSHA data reveals that while the "Fatal Four" (falls, struck-by, caught-in, and electrocution) lead in fatal injuries, other causes like overexertion, slips and trips, and heat stress drive a substantial share of non-fatal yet costly occupational injuries across the construction sector.

At Malta Dynamics, we've spent a decade helping contractors, safety managers, and general contractors reduce workplace injury risks through engineered safety systems and field-tested equipment. 

This guide breaks down the ten most common construction site injuries and how to prevent them, combining current safety statistics with actionable prevention steps and proven protective gear. When you understand where and why the risks occur, your construction company can strengthen safety protocols and protect both your crews and the bottom line.

1. Falls from Heights

Falls from height remain the leading cause of construction site fatalities and one of the most common serious injuries across the construction industry. These construction accidents typically occur from scaffolding, ladders, roofs, aerial lifts, or open edges—areas where even a momentary lapse in protection can produce catastrophic outcomes.

Statistics

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), falls accounted for more than 37% of all construction fatalities in 2022, resulting in over 400 worker deaths nationwide. OSHA continues to list fall protection as the most frequently cited safety violation year after year, underscoring the persistent gap between awareness and implementation. Beyond fatalities, thousands of non-fatal fall injuries lead to extended downtime, workers' compensation claims, and costly medical bills each year.

Prevention

Reducing fall-related incidents begins with comprehensive planning and strict adherence to safety protocols:

• Use complete fall protection systems, including full-body harnesses, self-retracting lifelines (SRLs), and certified anchor points.

• Inspect PPE daily for damage or wear, replacing any compromised components immediately.

• Install guardrails or restraint systems around open edges, roofs, and scaffolding.

• Train each construction worker to understand tie-off points, anchor placement, and how to prevent swing hazards.

• Maintain clean walking surfaces to eliminate slips that trigger falls.

2. Struck-By Injuries

Struck-by incidents occur when a worker is hit by a moving object, vehicle, or falling material. On active construction sites, these events often happen near cranes, heavy equipment, or scaffolding—areas where visibility narrows and movement accelerates.

Statistics

Struck-by hazards are another one of the "Fatal Four" and account for nearly 10 percent of all construction worker fatalities each year. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports more than 20,000 non-fatal struck-by incidents annually in the United States construction sector. These construction site accidents often lead to traumatic brain injuries, fractures, and eye damage, driving significant workers' compensation and lost time claims across the industry.

Prevention

Reducing struck-by risks demands training, planning, and high-visibility protection:

• Require hard hats and high-visibility vests at all times, especially around heavy machinery.

• Establish exclusion zones around cranes, trucks, and lift operations to limit access to high-risk areas.

• Deploy tool tethers and debris nets when working at height to prevent objects from falling.

• Equip machinery with back-up alarms, mirrors, and spotters to protect workers on foot.

• Conduct daily safety briefings to identify areas with active lifting or overhead work.

3. Caught-In or Between Incidents

Caught-in or between injuries occur when workers are pinched, squeezed, crushed, or trapped between objects, equipment, or collapsing structures. These construction site accidents often happen near heavy machinery, during trenching or excavation, or when materials shift unexpectedly.

Statistics

Caught-in or between hazards rank among the top causes of workplace fatalities in construction, accounting for roughly 5 percent of annual deaths in the industry. Hundreds of construction workers suffer fatal or severe crush-related injuries each year, often during excavation or when working near unguarded equipment. These occupational injuries frequently involve machinery entanglement, unprotected trenches, or collapsing loads—scenarios that demand strict safety protocols and training.

Prevention

Preventing caught-in or between incidents starts with sharp hazard awareness and equipment control:

• Keep hands, clothing, and tools clear of moving parts and pinch points.

• Follow lockout/tagout procedures whenever performing maintenance on powered machinery.

• Deploy trench boxes or shoring systems for excavation deeper than 5 feet, as required by OSHA standards.

• Maintain safe distances from heavy equipment, and never position yourself between vehicles and fixed objects.

• Inspect machinery guards, barriers, and warning systems daily to confirm proper function.

4. Electrocutions

Electrical hazards pose a persistent threat on construction sites, particularly where crews work around temporary wiring, overhead power lines, or energized systems. Many of these construction accidents occur when tools or equipment come into contact with live circuits, or when electrical safety procedures aren't followed during maintenance or setup. Even brief exposure to high voltage can cause severe injuries, cardiac arrest, or fatal injuries.

Statistics

Electrocutions consistently rank among the leading causes of construction worker fatalities, responsible for roughly 7 percent of all deaths in the construction industry each year. Non-fatal electrical injuries number in the thousands annually, often involving contact with overhead power lines or damaged extension cords. These incidents not only result in work-related injuries but also drive substantial workers' compensation and medical expenses for construction companies.

Prevention

Electrical safety depends on clear planning and vigilant inspection throughout every project phase:

• Identify all energized sources before beginning work, and maintain required clearance distances from power lines.

• Deploy ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) on all temporary power systems.

• Inspect cords, plugs, and power tools daily for cuts, frays, or exposed wiring.

• Enforce lockout/tagout procedures strictly during equipment servicing.

• Train crews to recognize electrical hazards, including wet conditions, damaged insulation, and unauthorized connections.

• Equip workers with proper PPE for electrical work, such as Class E hard hats, insulated gloves, and dielectric footwear, to protect against electric shock and arc flash hazards.

5. Slips, Trips, and Falls on the Same Level

Not all falls occur from height. Many serious injuries happen when workers lose footing on uneven surfaces, cluttered walkways, or slick flooring. These incidents are among the most frequent construction site injuries, often resulting in sprains, fractures, or back injuries that can sideline a worker for weeks.

Statistics

Slips, trips, and same-level falls account for thousands of non-fatal injuries every year. The National Safety Council reports that these incidents are one of the top three causes of workplace injury across all industries, contributing significantly to workers' compensation claims and lost productivity. In construction, they often occur in wet or debris-covered areas where housekeeping and visibility deteriorate.

Prevention

Maintaining a clean and organized jobsite delivers the most effective defense against slip and trip hazards:

• Keep walkways clear of debris, cords, and excess materials.

• Require non-slip footwear appropriate for the terrain and surface conditions.

• Mark uneven ground, holes, or wet surfaces with cones or signage.

• Ensure adequate lighting in high-traffic and low-visibility areas.

• Schedule routine housekeeping checks throughout the workday, not just at shift changes.

6. Overexertion and Repetitive Strain

Overexertion and repetitive motion injuries occur when construction workers lift, carry, push, or perform the same movements repeatedly without proper support or rotation. These incidents often produce long-term back injuries, joint strain, or muscle fatigue, which significantly impact productivity and generate costly workers' compensation claims.

Statistics

Musculoskeletal disorders from overexertion account for a substantial portion of non-fatal construction injuries each year. Lifting, pushing, or pulling heavy materials contributes to thousands of lost-time injuries, with the BLS reporting that over 30 percent of workers' compensation claims stem from musculoskeletal strains. Repetitive strain can also accumulate over time, producing chronic work-related injuries that affect long-term career longevity.

Prevention

Preventing overexertion and repetitive strain requires both ergonomic practices and equipment support:

• Use mechanical lifting aids—hoists, dollies, or cranes—whenever possible to reduce manual strain.

• Train workers on proper lifting techniques, including bending at the knees, keeping loads close, and avoiding twisting motions.

• Rotate tasks among crew members to minimize repetitive motion and muscle fatigue.

• Implement scheduled breaks to allow muscles to recover and reduce cumulative stress.

• Encourage supportive PPE, including back support belts or gloves with vibration-damping for tasks involving power tools.

7. Being Hit by Falling Objects

Falling objects pose a serious threat on construction sites, especially when construction work is performed at height. Tools, debris, or unsecured materials can strike workers below, leading to head injuries, fractures, or even fatal accidents. These incidents concentrate in scaffolding, roofing, and multi-story construction zones.

Statistics

Falling object incidents contribute to thousands of non-fatal injuries annually in the construction sector, with head injuries being among the most frequent and severe outcomes. These construction site accidents also factor heavily into workers' compensation claims, medical bills, and lost time for construction crews. While fatalities occur less frequently than other "Fatal Four" incidents, the potential for severe injury remains high.

Prevention

Preventing injuries from falling objects requires both site management and protective equipment:

• Install toe boards, debris nets, and guardrails in elevated work areas.

• Secure all tools and materials when working at height, using lanyards or tethering systems.

• Require workers below to wear hard hats and other appropriate head protection.

• Maintain organized storage for materials and tools to reduce accidental drops.

• Conduct daily safety briefings to remind crews of overhead work and potential hazards.

8. Equipment-Related Injuries

Heavy machinery and construction equipment, including forklifts, cranes, excavators, and power tools, can cause severe injuries when operated unsafely. Workers face crushing, struck-by incidents, or entanglement if machinery isn't properly maintained or if operators and site crews fail to follow safety procedures.

Statistics

Many construction workers sustain injuries annually due to unsafe operation or maintenance of heavy equipment, with common outcomes including crushed limbs, fractures, and severe lacerations. These construction injury incidents often result in extended downtime and workers' compensation claims, making prevention a high priority for construction companies.

Prevention

Minimizing equipment-related injuries requires training, inspection, and communication:

• Restrict operation of heavy machinery to trained and certified personnel only.

• Perform daily equipment inspections before use to identify defects or maintenance needs.

• Maintain clear communication and visual contact between operators and workers in congested areas.

• Deploy spotters or signal personnel when maneuvering large vehicles or equipment.

• Verify that guards, barriers, and safety devices are installed and functional on all tools and machines.

Malta Dynamics addresses equipment safety through both site protocols and protective gear, helping crews navigate high-risk areas safely and reducing the likelihood of severe occupational injuries.

9. Exposure to Harmful Substances

Construction workers can encounter a variety of hazardous materials, including dust, fumes, chemicals, and asbestos. These substances can trigger respiratory illnesses, skin irritation, or long-term health complications if proper controls aren't in place.

Statistics

Many construction workers experience work-related injuries or illnesses each year from exposure to harmful substances. Respiratory problems and chemical burns are common outcomes, and long-term exposure can result in chronic conditions that increase medical expenses and workers' compensation claims.

Prevention

Preventing injuries from harmful substances requires careful planning, proper protective equipment, and adherence to safety regulations:

• Follow all OSHA and ANSI requirements for hazardous material handling.

• Use proper ventilation in enclosed areas to reduce dust, fumes, or chemical concentrations.

• Equip workers with appropriate personal protective equipment, including respirators, gloves, and protective clothing.

• Label and store chemicals safely according to OSHA standards to prevent accidental exposure.

• Provide training on safe handling procedures and emergency response for hazardous materials.

10. Extreme Temperature Exposure

Construction workers frequently face extreme heat during the summer months and dangerous cold conditions in winter. Prolonged exposure to temperature extremes can produce heat stress, heat exhaustion, hypothermia, or frostbite, all serious health risks that affect both safety and productivity on the jobsite.

Statistics

Heat-related illnesses and cold exposure injuries account for hundreds of occupational injuries annually in the construction sector. These incidents often require medical attention and result in lost work time, particularly during peak summer and winter conditions when temperature hazards intensify.

Prevention

Preventing temperature-related injuries requires preparation, monitoring, and protective measures:

• Schedule regular breaks in shaded or heated areas depending on conditions.

• Provide easy access to water to maintain hydration and prevent heat-related illnesses.

• Require weather-appropriate PPE, including breathable clothing for heat and insulated layers for cold.

• Train crews to recognize signs of heat stress or cold exposure and respond quickly.

• Adjust work schedules when possible to avoid the hottest or coldest hours of the day.

Protect Your Crew

Construction site injuries carry serious consequences: from long-term medical complications to lost productivity and costly workers' compensation claims. By understanding the ten most common hazards, construction companies can take proactive steps to protect their crews.

Implementing strong safety protocols, providing proper training, and equipping workers with reliable personal protective equipment are essential measures to reduce both fatal and non-fatal injuries. 

Malta Dynamics designs fall protection systems, PPE, and site-ready safety solutions with these risks in mind, helping contractors, site supervisors, and safety managers maintain compliance, safeguard their teams, and ensure a safer, more productive jobsite.

Protect your crew with dependable fall protection, PPE, and safety solutions from Malta Dynamics. Visit our website to explore gear that meets OSHA and ANSI standards.