Table of Contents
Tired of paperwork?
Construction is an industry notorious for its hazardous nature and the risks workers face on a daily basis. Despite ongoing efforts to improve safety standards, construction sites continue to witness a significant number of injuries and fatalities each year.
In this blog, we will explore the latest construction injury statistics and delve into the key takeaways for 2023. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of the prevailing risks and trends, we can work towards creating safer construction environments. Let's delve into the construction safety facts and construction site injury statistics that are crucial for everyone involved in the industry.
Construction injury statistics 2023: Key takeaways
Construction safety is a critical concern in the industry, and understanding construction accident injury statistics and construction safety facts is essential for promoting a safe working environment. By examining construction site injury statistics, businesses can gain valuable insights into the prevalence and types of injuries that occur on construction sites.
These construction pedestrian injury statistics help identify areas of improvement and inform the implementation of proactive safety measures.
The incident rate per 10,000 construction employees in 2020 was 48.31 cases of overexertion and bodily reaction per 10,000 full-time workers.
Falls from heights accounted for 33% of non-fatal accidents in the construction industry.
Lower back injuries affected 60% of tradespeople, making them the most commonly injured body part.
In 2023, there were 454 construction worker deaths, a significant increase from the previous year's count of 29.
Falls from heights were the leading cause of fatal injuries in construction, responsible for 51% of all construction-related deaths.
Slips, trips, and falls were the primary cause of non-fatal injuries in construction.
Workplace injuries constituted 6-9% of total construction project costs.
The total economic cost of construction industry injuries rose by 34% from 2018 to 2020.
The indirect cost multipliers associated with work-related injuries ranged from 3 to 10 times the direct costs incurred.
9 construction injury statistics and facts you need to know in 2023
Observing construction injury statistics is crucial for evaluating accidents, identifying trends, and allocating resources effectively. These construction accident statistics highlight financial implications, emphasize worker well-being, and drive policy changes. By analyzing this data, stakeholders can promote a safety culture and create safer work environments in the construction industry.
General Construction Injury Statistics
Construction injuries pose significant risks to workers and project success. This overview explores the impact of these injuries, emphasizing the importance of safety measures. Discover the latest insights on common injury types, their consequences, and the need for proactive prevention.
Incident Rate per 10,000 Construction Employees
One important construction safety statistic to consider is the incident rate per 10,000 full-time construction employees. In 2020, the incidence rate of overexertion and bodily reaction for construction laborers was 48.3 cases per 10,000 full-time workers (BLS). This figure serves as a measure of the overall safety performance in the industry and emphasizes the need for continuous improvement in protecting construction workers.
Construction site injuries can have severe consequences, impacting workers physically, emotionally, and financially. Understanding the incident rate helps us evaluate the effectiveness of existing safety measures and identify areas that require additional attention. It serves as a benchmark for assessing progress and implementing targeted strategies to reduce construction workers accidents and injuries in the industry.
Falls as the Leading Cause of Construction Injuries
Falling from height is a significant concern and the leading cause of non-fatal accidents in the construction industry. Construction fall statistics reveal that a third, accounting for 33%, of non-fatal accidents are attributed to falls from height (Hertstools). The falls in construction statistics highlights the critical need for robust safety measures and heightened awareness when working at elevated levels.
Falls from height pose a substantial risk to construction workers, often resulting in severe injuries that can have long-lasting physical, emotional, and financial impacts. These accidents can occur due to various factors, such as unstable scaffolding, improper use of fall protection equipment, or inadequate training on working safely at heights.
To address this issue, it is essential for employers and workers to prioritize fall prevention strategies. This includes conducting thorough risk assessments, implementing appropriate safety protocols, providing adequate safety equipment, and ensuring proper training on fall protection and working at heights.
Commonly Injured Body Parts
Among the various types of injuries, lower back injuries are particularly prevalent, affecting three in five, or 60%, of tradespeople (Professional Electrician). These injuries can result from a range of factors, including repetitive motions, heavy lifting, and the physical demands of the job. The high incidence of lower back injuries underscores the need for targeted preventive measures, proper training on lifting techniques, and the provision of ergonomic equipment to minimize the risk of injury.
Key Takeaways for General Construction Injury Statistics
Incident rate per 10,000 full-time construction employees in 2020 was 48.31 cases of overexertion and bodily reaction, highlighting the need for continuous improvement in worker protection.
Falls from height account for a third (33%) of non-fatal accidents in construction, emphasizing the importance of robust safety measures and awareness when working at elevated levels.
Lower back injuries affect three in five (60%) tradespeople, underscoring the need for preventive measures, proper training, and ergonomic equipment.
Fatal and Non-Fatal Injuries Statistics
Explore the significant impact of fatal and non-fatal injuries in the construction industry. This overview of construction safety statistics highlight the importance of safety measures and prevention strategies. Discover common causes, consequences, and the need to prioritize worker well-being for a safer construction environment.
Construction Worker Deaths per Year
One of the most significant indicators of construction safety is the number of deadly construction accidents per year . In 2023, there was a concerning increase in fatalities, with 45 building workers tragically losing their lives on the job, up from 29 in the previous year (2021/22) (HSE).
This statistic serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by those working in the construction industry and emphasizes the urgent need for implementing robust safety measures to prevent further fatalities in order to reduce construction worker deaths per year.
The impact of construction worker deaths extends far beyond the individuals involved, affecting their families, colleagues, and the industry as a whole. Each life lost is a devastating tragedy that underscores the importance of maintaining a strong safety culture within the construction industry.
It is imperative for construction companies to prioritize the implementation of effective safety programs, promote continuous awareness, and ensure strict compliance with safety regulations. By doing so, the industry can take significant strides in reducing the number of fatal incidents and creating a safer working environment for all construction workers.
Common Cause of Fatal Injuries
When considering what is the leading cause of death in construction, falls from heights account for a staggering 51% of all construction-related deaths (Novum Law). This statistic sheds light on the urgent need for comprehensive fall prevention strategies and heightened safety measures in the construction industry in order to reduce the construction worker death rate.
Falls from heights can occur due to various factors, such as inadequate fall protection systems, unstable scaffolding, improper use of ladders or elevated work platforms, or lack of proper training on working safely at heights. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach that focuses on prevention, education, and enforcement of safety standards.
Common Cause of Non-Fatal Injuries
Slips, trips, and falls represent a significant risk factor in the construction industry, being the most common cause of non-fatal injuries among construction workers. These accidents can occur due to various factors, such as uneven surfaces, debris, inadequate lighting, or lack of proper safety protocols.
While these incidents account for a considerable portion of non-fatal construction work injuries, it is essential to note that slips and falls accounted for only 26% of all construction work accidents, slightly lower than the overall average of 31% for all work-related accidents (Novum Law).
Head Injury Toll
Construction head injury statistics show that over the period spanning from 2016/17 to 2018/19, 595 construction workers fell victim to head injuries (CIOB). This figure serves as a stark reminder of the perils faced by these laborers and underscores the urgent requirement for fortified safety precautions within the sector. Despite the construction field being a cornerstone of economic progress and infrastructure advancement, these numbers shed light on the pressing need to prioritize the protection and welfare of the workforce.
Key Takeaways for Fatal and Non-Fatal Injuries in the Construction Industry
Construction worker deaths increased significantly in 2023, with 454 fatalities reported, up from 29 in the previous year.
Falls from heights are the leading cause of fatal construction work accidents, accounting for 51% of all construction-related deaths.
Slips, trips, and falls are the most common cause of non-fatal construction worker injuries, though they account for 26% of construction work accidents compared to the overall average of 31% for all work-related accidents.
Costs of Construction Injuries Statistics
When analyzing construction injury costs, it's crucial to differentiate between direct and indirect costs. Direct costs include immediate financial expenses like medical treatment, compensation, legal fees, and insurance premiums. Indirect costs involve long-term impacts such as lost productivity, project delays, reputation damage, and emotional tolls.
Construction industry injury statistics on costs include:
Costly Toll of Workplace Injuries on Construction Projects
A noteworthy statistic to consider is that 6-9% of construction project costs are directly attributed to workplace injuries, making it a significant factor in overall project expenses (eLCOSH). These costs encompass various aspects such as medical treatment, compensation for injured workers, legal fees, increased insurance premiums, and the implementation of safety measures to prevent further incidents.
By considering the full scope of workplace injury-related expenses, construction companies and project managers can better understand the financial impact and strive to create safer work environments to minimize these costs.
Surging Economic Costs
In 2020, the total economic cost of construction industry injuries experienced a significant increase of 34% when compared to the figures recorded in 2018 (Hertstools). This rise in costs highlights the pressing need for enhanced safety measures and a proactive approach to mitigating workplace injuries within the construction sector.
The economic impact of these injuries encompasses both direct and indirect costs, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing worker safety and fostering a culture of accident prevention.
Indirect Cost Multipliers
The indirect cost multipliers associated with work-related injuries are staggering, ranging from 3 to 10 times the direct costs incurred (fit2wrk). This means that the financial repercussions of workplace injuries extend far beyond the immediate expenses directly related to the incident.
The indirect costs encompass a wide array of factors that have long-lasting implications for both the injured worker and the company involved.
When an employee is injured on the job, their absence or reduced capacity to work can disrupt the workflow and cause delays in project completion. This leads to decreased productivity and additional expenses to cover for the temporary or permanent loss of the injured worker's contribution.
The need for replacement workers or overtime pay to compensate for the reduced workforce can quickly escalate project costs.
Key Takeaways for Costs of Construction Injuries
Workplace injuries account for 6-9% of construction project costs, significantly impacting overall expenses.
The total economic cost of construction industry injuries rose by 34% in 2020 compared to 2018, emphasizing the need for improved safety measures.
Indirect cost multipliers for work-related injuries range from 3 to 10 times the direct costs incurred, highlighting the extensive financial impact beyond immediate expenses.
Manage your construction business with Atto
Atto is a comprehensive tool designed to efficiently manage your construction business. With features for workforce tracking, project management, and reporting, Atto helps you save time, increase efficiency, and enhance safety.
Effectively monitor employee attendance, hours worked, and breaks to ensure accurate payroll processing and compliance. Simplify project management by assigning tasks, tracking progress, and promoting seamless communication among team members.
Experience the benefits of streamlined operations, increased efficiency, and improved safety with Atto. Start your free trial now.
No credit card required