Construction Injuries Workers Comp in Pennsylvania

Construction Injuries Overview

Construction is one of the most dangerous industries, with workers facing hazards from the OSHA 'Fatal Four': falls, struck-by incidents, electrocutions, and caught-in/between accidents. Construction injuries range from minor cuts and bruises to catastrophic injuries including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and amputations. The physically demanding nature of the work also contributes to overexertion injuries.

Pennsylvania Workers Comp Benefits

Common Symptoms — Construction Injuries

• •Fractures and broken bones from falls or struck-by incidents
• •Traumatic brain injuries from falling objects or falls
• •Electrical burns and electrocution injuries
• •Crush injuries from heavy equipment or materials
• •Heat stroke and heat-related illnesses
• •Hearing loss from prolonged noise exposure
• •Respiratory conditions from dust, silica, or asbestos exposure

Key Facts

• ✓Construction workers are 5 times more likely to die on the job than average workers
• ✓The OSHA 'Fatal Four' account for over 60% of construction worker deaths annually
• ✓Multi-employer construction sites may allow third-party negligence claims
• ✓OSHA violations on construction sites significantly strengthen workers comp claims
• ✓Independent contractor misclassification can affect workers comp eligibility
• ✓Construction workers may be eligible for both workers comp and personal injury claims
• ✓State Workers' Insurance Fund (SWIF) is the state fund
• ✓All employers must carry coverage
• ✓Benefits are 66⅔% of average weekly wage
• ✓Pennsylvania has Impairment Rating Evaluations (IRE) after 104 weeks
• ✓Workers can choose from a list of approved physicians