Weekly Safety Training Topic No. 2615

Struck by hazards

Understanding the different types of struck-by hazards is crucial for implementing effective safety measures. Struck-by incidents are the 2nd leading cause of death among construction workers.

There are four primary types of struck-by hazards.

• Struck-by flying objects occur when an object is propelled through the air and hits a worker. This can happen due to various reasons, such as:
  • Tools or materials being ejected from machinery.
  • Explosions or pressurized equipment failures.
  • Debris from cutting or grinding operations.
• Struck-by falling objects occur when an object falls from a height and hits a worker below. Common causes include:
  • Improperly secured tools or materials.
  • Workers dropping objects from scaffolding or ladders.
  • Structural failures or collapses.
• Struck-by swinging objects occur when an object moves in a swinging motion and hits a worker. This can happen due to:
  • Unsecured loads on cranes or hoists.
  • Improperly controlled machinery.
  • Wind or other environmental factors causing objects to swing.
• Struck-by rolling objects occur when a worker is hit by an object that is rolling, sliding or moving on wheels. Common causes include:
  • Vehicles or heavy equipment moving in the work area.
  • Unsecured materials or equipment rolling off surfaces.
  • Improperly stored materials or equipment.

To reduce struck by hazards, operators of mobile equipment need to:

• Inspect vehicles before use.
• Operate equipment on stable surfaces and avoid steep grades or ramps that can cause a tip over.
• Keep watch for people walking in the area.
• Use the parking brake when equipment is parked and chock the wheels when parked on an unlevel surface.
• Follow manufacturer's guidance for the weight ratings, seat belt use and number of passengers.

When working around mechanized equipment, remember to:

• Stay out of the path of moving equipment.
• Never assume the operator sees you.
  • Operators may have limited visibility and may not be aware of your presence.
• Don’t get distracted or take your eyes off the equipment.
• Beware of moving parts on equipment that can cause injuries, for example belts and pulleys, gears, sprockets and chains.
• Never wear loose clothing that could be caught in machinery.

To prevent falling objects:

• Secure tools and materials.
• Use barriers to prevent tools and materials from falling. Installing toe-boards, screens, or guardrail systems and setting up debris nets, catch platforms, or canopy structures can stop falling objects from hurting workers on the ground.
• If you see tools on window ledges and similar locations, remove the tools or report the hazard.
• Remember to use hard hats and safety glasses.
• Consider tethering tools to tool belts. Tether tools with proper tool lanyards when performing overhead work.
• Barricade fall zones with a physical barrier to prevent people from being struck by loads.
• Don’t stand or work in areas below a raised load.

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The information and recommendations contained in this “Weekly safety training topic” have been compiled from various sources believed to be reliable and represent the best current opinion on the subject. The Builders, a chapter of the AGC, in no way guarantees, insures or warrants the absolute correctness or sufficiency of any information contained within. The Builders expressly disclaims all liability and assumes no responsibility therewith. For more information, please call 816.55.4158.