OVERVIEW
Construction covers a wide expanse of functions and activities. It includes the gamut ranging from the building of office building to the lying of pipelines to the grading of airport runways. Given the diverse level of construction functions, it is not surprising that construction falls in the category of “dangerous” occupations.
One of the primary reasons for this categorization is the changing nature of construction work sites. Thus, the hazards to workers change every day. National statistics indicate half of all fatal falls occur in the construction industry. In Wisconsin, 11% of all workplace fatalities occur in construction while 15% of all compensable workers compensation claims are related to the construction industry.
Construction activities are generally managed from a relatively fixed place of business, while the actual construction work is performed at contracted building or work sites. Construction can be divided into three main types:
1. Building construction by general contractors and builders – General contractors are primarily engaged in the construction of dwellings, office buildings, stores, farm buildings, and other building construction projects.
2. Heavy construction other than buildings – Companies that generally engage in the construction of highways, pipelines, communication lines, and sewer and water mains.
3. Construction by other special trade contractors – Special trade contractors would include such jobs as grading for highways and airport runaways, pipelines, guardrail construction, asphalt and concrete construction of roads, trenching, cabling, land clearing and leveling.
More Information
Injury Data
Additional Construction Specific Injury Data
Safety Award Winners
Wisconsin Businesses that have received the prestigious Wisconsin Corporate Safety Award