OSHA's "Focus Four": Major Hazards in the Construction Industry

The construction industry is inherently hazardous, with workers exposed to various risks daily. Recognizing this, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has identified four primary hazards that account for most injuries and fatalities in construction.

These hazards, known as the “Focus Four,” are:

• Falls
• Struck-By
• Caught-In/Between
• Electrocution

Understanding these hazards and implementing effective safety measures can significantly reduce the risk of accidents on construction sites.

Falls: The leading cause of fatalities

Falls are the most common cause of death in the construction industry, accounting for nearly 40% of all fatalities. These incidents often occur when workers fall from ladders, scaffolding, roofs, or other elevated surfaces.

The primary causes of falls include:

• Unprotected edges and openings: Workers can fall from heights when working near unguarded edges, floor holes, or wall openings.
• Improper use of fall protection equipment: Inadequate or improperly used harnesses, lanyards, and guardrails can fail to protect workers.
• Slippery or unstable surfaces: Uneven or wet surfaces can cause slips and falls, particularly on scaffolding and ladders.

Prevention strategies:

• Use proper fall protection systems, such as guardrails, safety nets, or personal fall arrest systems.
• Regularly inspect and maintain equipment.
• Ensure workers are trained in safe work practices and the correct use of fall protection gear.

Struck-by incidents: Avoiding moving hazards

Struck-by hazards occur when workers are hit by flying, falling, swinging, or rolling objects. These incidents are the second leading cause of fatalities in construction and the Focus Four.

Common scenarios include:

• Falling objects: Tools, materials, or debris can fall from different heights, striking workers below.
• Vehicle-related accidents: Workers can be struck by moving vehicles, such as forklifts or trucks on construction sites.
• Flying objects: Tools or materials that are not properly secured can become projectiles when powered tools are used.

Prevention strategies:

• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hard hats and high-visibility vests.
• Secure tools and materials properly when working at different height levels.
• Establish controlled zones and use spotters to monitor the movement of vehicles and heavy equipment.

Caught-in/between hazards: Preventing trapped workers

Caught-in/between hazards occur when workers are caught, crushed, or pinched between objects, equipment, or collapsing structures. These hazards are particularly dangerous and can result in serious injuries or fatalities.

Examples include:

• Trench collapses: Workers can be buried or trapped when trenches cave in.
• Machinery: Workers can be caught in moving parts of machinery if safeguards are not in place.
• Heavy equipment: Workers can be crushed between vehicles or equipment and stationary objects.

Prevention strategies:

• Use protective systems such as trench boxes or shoring to prevent trench collapses.
• Ensure machinery is properly guarded and that workers are trained in lockout/tagout procedures.
• Maintain safe distances between workers and moving equipment and use communication protocols to alert workers of potential dangers.

Electrocution: Managing electrical risks

Electrocution is the fourth hazard of the Focus Four, often resulting from contact with overhead power lines, exposed wiring, or electrical equipment.

The primary causes of electrocution include:

• Contact with power lines: Workers may accidentally encounter live overhead power lines, especially when using ladders, scaffolds, or cranes.
• Improper use of electrical equipment: Using damaged tools, extension cords, or working in wet conditions can lead to electrocution.
• Inadequate grounding: Electrical systems and equipment that are not properly grounded can pose serious risks.

Prevention strategies:

• Maintain a safe distance from power lines and use non-conductive ladders or tools.
• Regularly inspect electrical tools and equipment for damage and avoid using them in wet conditions.
• Ensure proper grounding of electrical systems and use ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).

The Focus Four hazards—Falls, Struck-By, Caught-In/Between, and Electrocution—are responsible for most fatalities in the construction industry. By understanding these hazards and implementing effective safety measures, construction companies can create safer work environments and significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

Regular training, proper use of safety equipment, and a commitment to a strong safety culture are essential in protecting workers and ensuring they return home safely at the end of each day.