The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) states that approximately 6.5 million people work at construction sites across the country. Sadly, fatalities in this industry are far more common than they are in other industries. The good news, however, is that construction site injuries can be prevented when certain safety precautions are implemented.Consider the followingseven ways employers can reduce the risk of construction site injuries:

1. Provide Safety Training

Construction site workers must undergo a thorough training program before they begin work. They should know exactly how to handle dangerous equipment such as power tools and forklifts and properly dispose of chemicals. Understanding how to read Material Safety Data Sheets is important as well.

2. Invest in the Proper Equipment

Prior to visiting a job site, equipment must go through an inspection. Any equipment that has been poorly designed or is broken should be disposed. Employees should also be trained on how to properly use the equipment.

An Illinois company is facing a massive $71,000 fine after a worker suffered injuries to his left arm while operating a machine that did not have any safety devices. The Chicago Tribune reported that he was using sandpaper to remove rust from a part of the machine.

His hand was caught and pulled into the spinning parts, breaking his bones. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the federal agency charged with the enforcement of safety and health legislation, said employees often pay the “painful price” when companies do not follow safety standards.

In today’s competitive economy, companies in every industry are looking for ways to cut costs. In some cases, this means that proper safety precautions are not taken, and it is the worker who suffers.