5 Alarming Contractor Safety Statistics

While working with contractors, there is a misbelief that strict regulations and regular OSHA inspections are sufficient safeguards against accidents on job sites. However, delving into the actual contractor safety statistics paints a stark and concerning picture. In recent years, studies have revealed that workplaces heavily reliant on contractors continue to present significant safety risks. This underscores the pressing need for a unified effort to enhance safety standards and practices within the realm of contractor management.

The following list outlines the five most critical data points related to contractor safety.

Fall Protection Deficiencies

Toppling the list of OSHA violations among contractors is the recurrent absence of fall protection measures. In 2021, there were 370 falls from heights, and OSHA identified 5,465 violations related to fall protection in 5,327 inspections. The financial repercussions were substantial, with fines totaling $28.8 million.

This highlights a pressing need for a renewed emphasis on preventive measures, addressing issues such as inadequate training, a lack of equipment, and non-compliance with safety protocols. Beyond the numbers, these lapses represent tangible life risks, necessitating immediate action.

Fatalities in Construction Industry

In 2021, the construction industry witnessed 1,008 fatalities, solidifying its position as one of the most hazardous sectors in the United States. Beyond the numerical impact, each fatality reverberates through families and communities. These figures underscore the urgency for comprehensive safety measures and a cultural shift prioritizing worker well-being.

Safety must not be viewed merely as regulatory compliance but as a moral responsibility. Companies prioritizing safety reduce fatalities and also create environments that attract skilled professionals, contributing to industry resilience.

Temporary Workers at Heightened Risk

Temporary workers and contractors face a 36-72% higher recordable injury rate compared to their permanent colleagues across industries. This raises concerns about their vulnerability, demanding a comprehensive examination of safety protocols tailored to their unique circumstances. Addressing this issue requires collaboration between employers, contractors, and regulatory bodies. Providing adequate safety training and seamlessly integrating temporary workers into existing safety frameworks are essential to safeguarding their well-being.

Caught-In/Between Accidents

Contributing to 5.4% of work-related deaths among contractors, caught-in/between accidents demand increased vigilance. In 2018, 156 workers fell victim to accidents involving being struck by objects or equipment, emphasizing the need for preventive measures. Proactive training, regular equipment inspections, and clear safety protocols are crucial to preventing caught-in/between accidents. Businesses in various industries must adopt a stance that identifies and mitigates potential hazards, fostering a safety culture throughout the organization.

PPE Usage Lags

Contractor safety statistics from 2022 reveal that only 31.7% of contractors consistently wore Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) on job sites. This underscores the need for a safety-first culture among contractors and emphasizes the role of PPE in preventing injuries. Low PPE usage rates signal the necessity for reevaluating safety training and enforcement. Comprehensive education programs and stringent enforcement measures are essential to ensuring consistent PPE use and demonstrating a commitment to workforce health and safety.

Comprehensive Resources for Contractor Safety

Several strategies can be employed to ensure contractor work conditions are safe:

1. Effective communication and training should be provided to the contractors.
2. A risk assessment should be conducted to identify potential hazards.
3. PPE should be provided to the contractors.
4. Regular safety inspections should be conducted to ensure that safety standards are being met.
5. Emergency preparedness plans should be in place.
6. Documentation and record-keeping should be maintained.

To prevent manual errors during safety contractor training, businesses can leverage the Appruv Resource Center for:

• Free interactive health and safety training videos
• Customizable health and safety programs
• A regularly updated library featuring a wide range of topics for safety meetings and toolbox talks
• Discounts on partner products and services, including employee background checks, safety consulting, PPE at discounted prices, and more
• Library of fully customizable safety forms and templates

These tools are designed to optimize health and safety initiatives, elevate workforce education, and contribute significantly to cultivating a robust safety culture. 

In conclusion, these contractor safety statistics necessitate a paradigm shift in how safety is approached within industries involving contract workers. Understanding these numbers is as crucial as establishing a solid safety foundation. As the industry navigates forward, let these statistics be a catalyst for change, propelling the sector toward a future where safety is an uncompromising standard. Appruv, at the forefront of safety management, offers solutions to simplify the oversight of vendors, contractors, and suppliers. 

If you find these statistics worrisome and are searching for a means to decrease the risk of workplace safety incidents, contact Appruv today.