Why Falls are Still at the Top of Preventable Injury-Related Deaths & Nonfatal Injuries in the Workplace

At the Ramsay Law Firm, P.A., our Charlotte workers’ compensation attorneys are acutely aware of the severity of workplace falls. OSHA mandates fall protection for construction workers six feet above the ground, underscoring the seriousness of this issue.
Unfortunately, the mandate does not keep these dangerous occurrences from happening.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), falls contributed to a staggering 16% of workplace fatalities in one recent year. Last year, falls were responsible for a significant 37% of construction deaths; falls from elevation accounted for a concerning 395 of the 1,069 construction fatalities. Other common fall hazards include improperly covered floor holes and openings, leaving workers across multiple industries vulnerable to these dangerous conditions.

What are the Most Common Injuries Associated with Workplace Falls in North Carolina?

In North Carolina and nationwide, falls are among the most common causes of workplace accidents, injuries, and fatalities, particularly in construction and industrial settings.

Falls are a leading cause of workers’ compensation claims and can result in a range of injuries, including:

• Sprains and Strains: Injuries to muscles, ligaments, and tendons often occur during falls, particularly in attempts to break a fall or twist to avoid impact.
• Dislocations: Shoulder and knee dislocations can occur, especially when there is an awkward fall or a sudden, uncontrolled movement during the fall.
• Fractures: This includes broken bones in the arms, legs, ribs, and hips, common results of falls from height or slips and trips on the same level.
• Back and Spinal Injuries: These can range from herniated discs to more severe spinal cord injuries that can result in long-term disability.
• Head Injuries: Including concussions and more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries can occur even from falls from relatively low heights or slips if the head strikes against a hard surface.

According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, falls are the second leading cause of death in the workplace, following closely behind transportation incidents. They are particularly prevalent in construction, where falls from heights are a significant concern.

The high incidence of falls makes them a primary focus for workplace safety regulations and preventive measures, such as using personal protective equipment (PPE), proper training, and adherence to safety protocols.

Enforcing safety standards, using proper fall protection equipment, and continuously training and educating workers on safety practices should be prioritized to reduce the number of fall-related accidents in North Carolina, nationally, and globally. If you believe your employer is not prioritizing your safety at work and you have been injured as a result, we can help.

Have You Been Injured in a Workplace Fall in North Carolina?

Our dedicated Mecklenburg County workers’ compensation law firm provides free consultations to all employees who have suffered a workplace injury in North Carolina. Call 704-376-1616 or contact us online.

A Voice For The Injured. Here Every Step of The Way.