Power tools are important at any construction site. Devices ranging from a variety of different cutting implements to drills reduce the amount of manual labor required to complete a construction project. Power tools not only diminish the pressure on the bodies of construction workers, but they also help ensure a consistent standard of work.
For the most part, power tools and similar equipment are beneficial for those in the construction sector. However, the benefits of power tools are offset by the risk they pose to professionals. There are several ways in which workers can sustain injuries because of power tools. The three risk factors explained below may leave workers in need of medical benefits or time off to recover.
Vibration-related injuries
Holding on to a power tool for hours every day can cause arm vibrations or even whole body vibrations. Extended exposure to powerful vibrations can cause a number of different medical issues for construction workers. In some cases, they may develop conditions that limit their strength, especially their grip strength. The more time per shift a professional handles power tools and the more years they perform the same functions, the greater the likelihood of eventually developing occupational diseases related to vibrations.
Traumatic injuries due to errors
Power tools are helpful in many cases, but they can be incredibly dangerous if handled improperly. Even professionals with specialized training and years of experience can make mistakes on the job. Workers might drop a saw or drill, causing major lacerations or broken bones to their lower extremities. They might lose control while cutting or drilling, resulting in severe traumatic injuries. A momentary lapse in judgment or focus is all it takes for a power tool to become incredibly dangerous for the professional handling it and anyone else near them.
Injuries caused by dropped tools
Working at an elevation, as is common in the construction sector, comes with many significant risk factors. Not only do construction workers have to protect themselves from the possibility of a fall, they need to be constantly aware of the risk of falling objects. If another professional does not use appropriate power tool tethers, they could drop a tool and cause major injuries to others nearby. The dropped tool could cause direct injuries when it strikes another worker. It could also strike materials or scaffolding, resulting in dangerous flying debris.
Construction professionals injured by power tools either through regular use or specific incidents may have grounds to pursue workers’ compensation benefits. Learning more about risk factors at construction sites can help professionals assert themselves to get the medical benefits and financial support they require after an injury at work.