Injuries are unfortunately common when it comes to contracting work, whether you’re a general contractor or an electrician. Knowing some of the common injuries a contractor can face day to day can help you prepare for injuries and calculate your workers compensation coverage.
Burns And Electrocution
Fire burns, electrical burns and electrocution are common for contractors working on homes and other buildings. These can cause severe and lasting damage on the skin or even lead to death. All contractors should wear proper gloves and other protection while working with wires or open flames.
Eye Injuries
In some cases, contractors work with bright lights or saws that could send shrapnel into their eyes. This can cause severe lacerations as well as vision impairment or even eye loss. Eye injuries can be prevented or lessened by contractors wearing safety visors or goggles while working and following proper procedure in case an injury does occur.
Knee And Ankle Injuries
Knees and ankles are easy to sprain, strain, tear or break in physical jobs like contracting. If you’re working on a project and walking between equipment and materials or lifting heavy objects, it’s easy for even the simplest motion to cause severe damage. Knee and ankle injuries can be hard to avoid, as they can happen in an instant when you’re doing nearly anything. However, it can still help to be careful where you step and lift heavy objects with care. If you need help, be sure to ask for it.
Neck, Back And Shoulder Injuries
Along the same lines, other areas of your body are just as at risk for strains and pulls from operating machinery or lifting heavy objects. Not stretching properly, not being properly hydrated and lifting incorrectly can all attribute to injuries on your neck, shoulder and back while working a contracting job. Be sure to stay healthy, drink water, stretch and follow proper steps to operating machinery and lifting.
Head And Brain Injuries
One of the most vulnerable areas of the body is your head. One bad fall or dropped object can cause serious and lasting damage from a concussion to paralysis, or even death. Always wear a hard helmet when necessary and pay attention to falling objects. If working up high, have someone spotting you in case you slip. Make sure to wear the proper boots and other equipment to avoid a bad slip or fall.
Also Read: What are the Workers Compensation Requirements in Indiana?
Get a Quote