What Is a Struck By Hazard?

A struck-by hazard occurs when a worker is hit by a flying, falling, swinging, or rolling object. Common examples include flying debris from machinery, tools dropped from heights, swinging crane loads, and moving heavy equipment. 

These incidents are so serious that OSHA classifies them as one of the “Fatal Four” leading causes of construction fatalities. In 2020 alone, they caused over 150 worker deaths and 14,000 injuries in the construction industry.

What are the four common types of struck by hazards?

Construction workers face four main types of struck-by hazards:

  1. Flying objects
  2. Falling or dropped objects
  3. Swinging objects
  4. Rolling objects

 

Struck By a Flying Object

Being struck by a flying object occurs when items are propelled through the air, often resulting from machinery malfunctions or improper tool use. This can include debris from cutting tools or parts ejected from malfunctioning equipment.

Struck By a Falling Object

Falling or dropped objects involve tools, materials, or structural components falling from heights. Even seemingly lightweight tools can become deadly when dropped from significant heights.

Struck By a Swinging Object

Swinging objects typically involve loads moved by cranes or other lifting equipment that may become unstable due to wind or improper securing methods.

Struck By a Rolling Object

Rolling objects include vehicles, heavy equipment, or materials that move or slide along surfaces in a worker’s path. Unsecured pipes, barrels, or carts can also roll unexpectedly, creating serious hazards.

What Is a Struck By Injury?

A struck by injury refers to physical harm caused by an object in motion, often resulting in head trauma, fractures, lacerations, or crush injuries. The severity of these injuries largely depends on factors like the object’s weight and fall distance. 

What Are the Dangers of Falling Objects on Construction Sites?

The physics of falling objects makes them extremely dangerous. For example:

  • A 1-pound tape measure falling from 150 feet can cause serious injury.
  • A 5-pound wrench dropped from 20 feet can be lethal.
  • A 10-pound toolbox falling from 50 feet almost always results in severe or fatal injuries.

It’s also crucial to be mindful of high-risk areas, including zones beneath suspended loads, scaffolding areas, and spaces with overhead work. With approximately 45,000 workers injured annually by falling objects, the danger cannot be overstated.

How Do I Prevent Struck By Hazards?

Preventing struck by hazards requires layered safety measures:

  • Wear PPE: Hard hats are the first line of defense against falling objects.
  • Maintain housekeeping: A clean, organized site reduces risks.
  • Secure tools and equipment: Inspect tools regularly, use tethers, and lock wheels on stationary equipment.
  • Establish hazard zones: Use signage, barriers, and floor markings to separate workers from danger.
  • Train workers: Ensure all personnel can recognize and avoid struck by hazards.
  • Avoid suspended loads: Never work under them, and always secure materials in transit.
  • Use designated walkways: Stay clear of areas with moving equipment or unstable loads.

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