The Definition of Struck-By Hazard

Definition of Struck-By Hazard

One of the "Fatal Four" hazard categories in construction, referring to injuries caused by forcible contact with a moving or falling object, including vehicles, equipment, tools, or materials.

Example of Struck-By Hazard

A worker on a construction site is required to stay clear of a designated swing radius while a crane is lifting steel beams overhead, reducing the risk of being struck by a falling load.

Frequently Asked Questions: Struck-By Hazard

What are common sources of struck-by hazards?

‍Common sources include falling tools or materials, swinging crane loads, vehicles and mobile equipment, and flying debris from cutting or grinding operations.

How can struck-by hazards be prevented?

‍Prevention measures include barricading danger zones, using proper rigging and load securing, wearing high-visibility clothing around vehicles, and maintaining safe distances from operating equipment.

Why are struck-by hazards considered part of the "Fatal Four"?

‍OSHA identifies struck-by incidents, along with falls, electrocutions, and caught-in/between hazards, as the four leading causes of construction worker fatalities, accounting for a large share of industry deaths.