what percentage of electrocutions involved cranes

Electrocutions are a serious hazard in the construction industry. The use of cranes on construction sites can increase the risk of electrocution. This article explores the percentage of electrocutions that involve cranes and the causes of these accidents.

Percentage of Electrocutions Involving Cranes

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), electrocutions are one of the leading causes of death for construction workers. Between 2011 and 2015, over 1,600 construction workers lost their lives due to electrocutions. Of these fatalities, approximately 10% involved cranes. This may seem like a small percentage, but it is important to note that crane-related electrocutions are often more severe than those that do not involve cranes.

Causes of Crane-Related Electrocutions

One of the main causes of crane-related electrocutions is contact with overhead power lines. Many construction sites have overhead power lines running through or near the site. When cranes are used on these sites, the risk of contact with these power lines increases. In some cases, the crane may not be properly positioned, causing it to come into contact with the power lines. In other cases, the operator may not be aware of the location of the power lines and may accidently come into contact with them. Another cause of crane-related electrocutions is improper maintenance of the crane. When cranes are not properly maintained, they can malfunction, putting the operator and other workers at risk.

Prevention Measures

To prevent crane-related electrocutions, it is important for construction companies to have proper safety protocols in place. This includes ensuring that all workers are trained in the safe use of cranes and that all cranes are properly maintained. It is also important to conduct regular safety inspections to identify any potential hazards on the construction site, including overhead power lines. Additionally, construction companies should consider using alternative methods to cranes, such as aerial lifts, when working near power lines.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the percentage of electrocutions involving cranes may be relatively small, the severity of these accidents should not be underestimated. Construction companies must take steps to prevent crane-related electrocutions, including proper training and maintenance, regular safety inspections, and the use of alternative methods when working near power lines. By doing so, we can reduce the number of fatalities in the construction industry and ensure a safe work environment for all workers.