National Stand-Down to Prevent Struck-by Incidents Week: April 15-19

Struck-by incidents stand as a significant threat to construction workers' safety, ranking as the second leading cause of workplace deaths and the primary cause of nonfatal injuries in the industry. Struck-by incidents constitute all injuries involving vehicles and transportation equipment, falling tools or objects, flying and discharged objects, and non-transportation vehicles or equipment, such as swing hazards from cranes. In 2020 alone, these incidents claimed 168 lives and caused around 14,000 nonfatal injuries. However, these accidents are preventable through heightened awareness, proper planning, interventions, and enhanced training.

The upcoming 5th annual National Stand-Down to Prevent Struck-by Incidents, scheduled from April 15-19, 2024, coincides with National Work Zone Awareness Week. This initiative aims to promote safe driving in highway work zones, emphasizing the responsibility of drivers to protect both workers and themselves by driving cautiously and avoiding distractions.Organized by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) in collaboration with various industry stakeholders, the Stand-Down event seeks to raise awareness and educate workers about the dangers of struck-by incidents. 

During a Safety Stand-Down, work halts momentarily, allowing groups of workers or entire sites to focus on specific safety concerns. This year's event emphasizes the prevention of injuries and fatalities in highway work zones. Employers may utilize stand-downs to spotlight interventions addressing hazards present on their sites.

Contractors, workers, and safety professionals nationwide are encouraged to participate in or host Struck-by Safety Stand-Down events. These gatherings offer a platform to educate workers on hazard prevention strategies. While the focus is on construction, struck-by incidents occur across various industries, making participation relevant beyond construction.

Resources and additional information about this hazard and the National Stand-Down are available on the NIOSH National Construction Center's website. By joining this initiative, individuals can contribute to a safer work environment for construction workers and potentially extend safety practices to other industries, reducing struck-by incidents across the board.

Let's unite in the effort to prevent struck-by incidents, safeguarding the well-being of construction workers and promoting a culture of safety across all workplaces. To learn more about the Stand Down Campaign, reach out to an agent at Diversified or visit: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/newsroom/feature/prevent-struck-by.html

DII is your partner in construction-site safety. Our team of experts can work with you to understand best safety practices and guidance on how to participate in April’s Stand Down campaign. Please contact your DII representative for more information. #NIOSH #StandDown #April