Understanding OSHA’s Fatal Four Hazards in Construction

The construction industry remains one of the most dangerous fields to work in. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), four hazards consistently cause the majority of construction-related deaths each year. Known as the Fatal Four Hazards, these include:

  • Falls
  • Struck-by hazards
  • Caught-in or -between hazards
  • Electrocution

Together, the Fatal Four account for more than 60% of all construction worker fatalities annually. Understanding these risks is the first step to preventing them.

Falls

Falls are the number one cause of construction deaths, making up 38.4% of all industry fatalities in 2022. They often occur when workers are:

  • On scaffolds, ladders, or roofs
  • Near unprotected floor openings
  • Along unprotected edges
  • Working on unstable surfaces

Fall prevention requires proper use of guardrails, fall arrest systems, and safe ladder practices. Regular training and site inspections also play a critical role in reducing risk.

 

Struck-By Hazards

A struck-by hazard happens when a worker is hit by a flying, falling, swinging, or rolling object. Common examples include:

  • Tools or materials falling from heights
  • Projectiles from machinery or power tools
  • Swinging crane loads
  • Heavy equipment moving without warning

Maintaining awareness, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), and enforcing strict equipment operation protocols help prevent struck-by incidents.

Caught-In or -Between Hazards

Caught-in or -between hazards occur when a worker is trapped, crushed, or pinched between two or more objects. OSHA reports an average of 55 fatalities each year from these incidents. Examples include:

  • Workers caught between heavy equipment and fixed structures
  • Cave-ins during trenching or excavation
  • Body parts pulled into unguarded machinery

Proper machine guarding, trench safety measures, and communication protocols are key to preventing these life-threatening situations.

Electrocution

Electrical hazards are another major contributor to the Fatal Four. Electrocution accounted for 8% of construction fatalities in 2021. These injuries happen when workers are exposed to unsafe electrical conditions such as:

  • Contact with live wires
  • Faulty or exposed wiring
  • Improper use of extension cords
  • Working near power lines without proper clearance

Electrocution can be prevented with lockout/tagout procedures, regular inspections, and training workers to identify electrical risks.

Why Fatal Four Awareness Matters

Addressing OSHA’s Fatal Four Hazards is essential for building a safer construction industry. By focusing on fall prevention, struck-by awareness, caught-in or -between safety, and electrical hazard control, contractors can significantly reduce preventable injuries and fatalities on job sites.

At X3 Tradesmen, safety is not optional—it is a core value. We are committed to equipping tradespeople with the training, tools, and support they need to recognize and avoid the Fatal Four hazards every day.

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X3 connects skilled tradespeople with leading contractors across Utah, Colorado, and Arizona. Through our Workforcing® approach, we deliver reliable, safety-trained electricians, plumbers, and HVAC professionals who are ready to perform from day one. By combining speed, expertise, and a focus on safety, X3 helps contractors keep projects on schedule and on budget.