OSHA's Fatal Four

OSHA'S FATAL FOUR

OSHA's Fatal Four, also known as the Focus Four, are the top four categories of hazards that cause the most fatalities in the construction industry. Based on the most recent data, these hazards are:

Falls

The leading cause of construction worker deaths, accounting for 37% of fatalities in 2021. Falls can occur from ladders, scaffolding, roofs, or any elevated work surface. Proper fall protection measures are crucial to prevent these accidents.

Struck-by hazards

These incidents involve workers being hit by objects that are flying, falling, swinging, or rolling. They accounted for 8% of construction deaths in 2021. Examples include being struck by moving vehicles, heavy equipment, or falling tools and materials.

Electrocutions

This category includes fatalities caused by contact with live electrical wires, equipment, or lightning strikes. Electrocutions made up about 8% of construction worker deaths in 2021. Risks include exposed wiring, wet conditions near electrical sources, and poorly maintained power tools.

Caught-in or Between hazards

These incidents occur when workers are crushed, squeezed, or caught between objects. They accounted for 5% of construction worker deaths in 2021. Examples include being caught in machinery, between equipment and a fixed object, or in a trench collapse.