Today is Workers Memorial Day, when people around the world honor the thousands killed each year on the job and the millions more who suffer serious occupational injuries and illnesses. In our industry approximately 1,000 workers die and another 75,000 are injured on job sites annually.
Workers Memorial Day offers the opportunity for us to remember those who have died and to strengthen our commitment to make sure every worker comes home safely every day. It takes the dedication of owners, contractors, managers, government officials, workers and many others to create safe job sites.
There are many ways to improve the safety and health of our industry, and this year we encourage everyone to focus on addressing:
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Falls. One in three work-related deaths in construction is caused by a fall. The Campaign to Prevent Falls in Construction brings together people from across the industry to raise awareness of this hazard and to show how to prevent these incidents. Participate in next week’s National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction as part of making a year-round commitment to eliminating this hazard.
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Mental Health. Mental health issues -- opioid dependency and suicide -- affect construction workers at much higher rates than workers overall. CPWR’s resources, which include Hazard Alert Cards, Toolbox Talks, and training programs, all support prevention.
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Struck-by Incidents. The just-completed National Stand-Down to Prevent Struck-by Incidents raised awareness of these hazards, which are the second leading cause of death among construction workers and the leading cause of nonfatal injuries. CPWR offers materials that address hazards such as dropped objects, heavy equipment, lift zone safety, and work zone safety.
Please honor those who have died by protecting today's workers.
Chris Trahan Cain
Executive Director
