One hundred months of construction accidents in the southeast of Mexico

Abstract

Construction work is considered to be one of the most dangerous activities, in which the workers are exposed to multiple risks. Due to the complex interdependence of the tasks and the fact that the productive plant changes location constantly, it is more difficult to manage injury prevention and safety in construction sites, with respect to other activities. The present study was conducted in Yucatan, Mexico, where low levels of prevention and compliance with obligatory norms have been reported. The aim was to analyze a sample of over one hundred construction accidents in building works in order to determine the causes and consequences of the lack of prevention. The risks which caused the accidents were analyzed with regard to their incidence and severity; the resulting injuries and the occupations of the workers affected were also analyzed. It was concluded that urgent measures are required in order to prevent four main risks (Concrete and masonry construction, Fall protection, Scaffolds, and Electrical); in addition, no actions were observed providing evidence that the phenomenon of lack of prevention in construction works is a priority for the authorities, companies or the trade unions.