According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 255 fatalities caused by falling objects or equipment in 2019.
In a study conducted by the Center for Construction research and Training, it was found that 80% of struck-by injuries in the construction industry were caused by falling objects.
A report by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) also found that hand tools and building materials were the most common objects that fell from height and caused injuries. The industry most affected by falling objects incidents was the construction industry with the highest rate – followed by manufacturing, transportation and offshore.
These statistics highlight the importance of workplace safety measures such as a drop safe barrier system. If a company fails to implement safety measures to prevent objects falling from height, they may face serious consequences – including:
- Legal penalties
- Regulatory fines and penalties
- Damage to reputation
- Compensation claims
Cost of dropped objects include fatalities, injuries | 2019
Struck-By Injuries in the Construction Sector: