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Occupational deaths and injuries in the construction industry
1Department of Industrial Engineering, Hansung University, Seoul, South Korea.
Applied Ergonomics
|August 14, 1998
Summary
Older construction workers in South Korea face higher risks of fatal occupational injuries, with falls from heights being the most common accident type. These findings aid in developing targeted safety programs.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Construction Industry Safety
- Accident Analysis
Background:
- The construction industry is a high-risk sector for occupational injuries and fatalities.
- Understanding specific accident characteristics is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the characteristics of occupational deaths and injuries in South Korea's construction industry.
- To identify patterns and differences between fatal and non-fatal construction accidents.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of national industrial accident statistics from 1991-1994.
- Data categorized by company size, worker age, experience, accident type, injury type, body part, and accident agency.
Main Results:
- Fatalities disproportionately affect older workers.
- 'Falls from a height' is the leading accident type, with fractures as the most common injury.
- Legs/feet/toes are most injured in non-fatal cases, while head/face/neck are most vulnerable in fatal incidents.
Conclusions:
- Distinct patterns exist for fatal vs. non-fatal construction injuries.
- Findings provide a basis for developing targeted accident prevention programs in the construction sector.
- Emphasis on age-related risks and fall prevention is recommended.