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According to data from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry (DOLI), construction accidents have been on a steady decline over the last 5 years. However, the most recent data from 2012 shows that the number of construction accidents in 2011 and 2012 held steady, at just over 6,000, down from over 7,000 in 2009.
Related: Top Work Accident Hazards in 2013 & OSHA Regulations
In addition, DOLI data shows that the construction industry accounts for a small portion, roughly 7.5%, of the total number of work related injuries (resulting in time lost from work) in Pennsylvania each year. In 2012, there were 6,364 construction related injuries, out of a total of 85,117. However, Pennsylvania’s construction industry accounts for about 20% of the total number of fatal work accidents. The reason for the large discrepancy is due to the inherent dangers in construction work. Construction workers often perform work at heights and on/near dangerous, heavy equipment.
Work Accidents-Injury Statistics, Pennsylvania’s Construction Industry
Total injuries in 2012: 6,364 (slightly up from 2011)
Most common type of injury: sprains/strains (40%)
Body part most commonly injured: arms/upper extremities (33.3%)
Most common cause of injury: overexertion (28%)
Median age of injured workers: 41.2
County with the highest number of injured construction workers: Philadelphia
Pennsylvania’s Construction Industry – Total Work Injury Data (2009-2012)
Year |
Total Number of Work Injury Cases |
2009 |
7,397 |
2010 |
6,979 |
2011 |
6,247 |
2012 |
6,364 |
Average |
6,747 |
Data sources: Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, Workers’ Compensation & Workplace Safety Annual Reports (2009-2012)
Construction Worker Injuries & Accidents in Pennsylvania
Whether on residential or commercial construction worksites, construction workers face many types of work hazards, such as:
- workplace falls (roofs, ladders, scaffolds),
- equipment accidents (forklifts, cranes, etc.), and
- electrical accidents (shock, electrocution, etc.).
The construction industry accounts for some of Pennsylvania’s most serious work related accidents and injuries, including spinal cord injuries, fractured bones and head injuries. In addition, when equipment such as a forklift or crane is involved, the injuries are often catastrophic, resulting in crushed limbs.
Pennsylvania workers who are injured in construction accidents often face many weeks if not months of recovery. Also, these kinds of injuries can lead to temporary or permanent disability. For example, a worker who falls from a roof and suffers spinal cord injuries may not be able to resume any type of work duties. In these situations, it is vital to have the cases investigated properly in order to determine liability of all parties. Access our work accident law library.
Work & Construction Accident Law Firm
Laffey, Bucci & Kent focuses on representing workers injured on construction sites throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Please call the firm to arrange a FREE case evaluation. You may be able to obtain financial recovery over and above workers’ compensation benefits. Click To Call
DISCLAIMER: This website does not create any attorney-client relationship or provide legal advice. It is crucial to speak to a qualified lawyer prior to making any decision about your case. Read full disclaimer at the bottom of this page.