Construction sites are inherently hazardous. From heavy machinery to electrical dangers, workers constantly face potential threats.
One of the most significant risks is falls from height. While broken bones and scrapes may come to mind first, the potential for internal injuries from a fall can be particularly serious.
The invisible threat: Internal injuries
Internal injuries are those that occur within the body, often affecting organs, blood vessels or muscles. Unlike a broken bone, they may not be immediately apparent. Symptoms like internal bleeding or organ damage can take hours or even days to develop. This makes them particularly dangerous in the aftermath of a fall.
The force of a fall from a significant height can cause internal trauma in several ways. To begin with, the sudden impact upon landing can damage internal organs, causing them to rupture or bleed. The spleen, liver and kidneys are particularly vulnerable. Furthermore, as the body rapidly slows during a fall, internal organs can be stretched or torn due to the inertia they carry. What’s worse is that falling onto objects can cause puncture wounds that damage internal organs directly.
The importance of awareness
Because internal injuries can be hidden, construction workers should be aware of the risks and seek medical attention immediately following a fall, even if they seem unharmed. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the outcome.
That said, construction workers can also practice safety tips to stay safe at construction sites. For starters, it can make a world of difference to always use proper fall protection equipment. Harnesses, guardrails and safety nets are essential for mitigating the risk of falls.
Falls from heights are a leading cause of serious injury and death in the construction industry. While external wounds are often a concern, internal injuries pose a hidden threat. Construction workers who sustain internal injuries in their line of work can consider working with an experienced legal team to pursue workers’ compensation benefits.