Construction sites are full of potential dangers, but few are as unpredictable and severe as electrocution. A single exposed wire or an overlooked safety measure can lead to life-changing injuries. Electrical accidents don’t just happen to electricians—they can affect anyone working near live wiring, power tools, or overhead lines. Burns, nerve damage, cardiac arrest, and even fatal injuries are all possibilities. When these accidents happen, the impact can be devastating. In many cases, these incidents could have been prevented.
Common Causes of Construction Electrocution
Electricity is one of the biggest hazards on a construction site. When proper safety measures aren’t followed, workers and bystanders face serious risks. Electrocution can cause burns, nerve damage, heart failure, and even death. Some of the most common causes of electrical accidents include:
- Contact with overhead power lines – Cranes, scaffolding, ladders, and other equipment can accidentally touch live wires. These high-voltage lines can cause severe shocks or fatalities on impact.
- Faulty wiring and equipment – Construction sites rely on power tools, temporary electrical setups, and generators. If wiring is exposed, circuits are overloaded, or tools are damaged, the risk of electrocution increases.
- Improper lockout/tagout procedures – Electrical systems must be turned off and clearly marked before maintenance. If a system is still live when work begins, serious injuries can occur.
- Wet conditions – Water and electricity are a deadly combination. Poorly insulated wires, standing water, or damp environments can create hazardous conditions.
Safety Protocols to Prevent Construction Electrocution Injuries
Electrical hazards can be reduced when proper safety measures are in place. Employers, contractors, and workers must take steps to prevent electrocution injuries on construction sites. Some key protocols include:
- Maintaining safe distances – Equipment and workers should stay at least 10 feet from overhead power lines.
- Inspecting tools and wiring – Damaged cords, exposed wires, and faulty equipment should be repaired or replaced immediately.
- Using Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) – These devices help prevent shocks by shutting off power when electrical faults occur.
- Enforcing lockout/tagout procedures – Workers should de-energize and properly label circuits before performing maintenance.
- Training workers on electrical safety – Proper education helps prevent mistakes that lead to severe injuries.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Electrocution Injuries?
When an electrocution happens on a construction site, multiple parties may be responsible. Liability depends on the cause of the accident and who failed to take proper precautions. Commonly responsible parties include:
- General contractors and subcontractors – Those in charge of the worksite must enforce safety regulations. If they allow unsafe conditions, ignore electrical hazards, or fail to provide proper training, they may be held accountable.
- Property owners – If the property has faulty wiring, exposed power lines, or other electrical dangers, the owner may be liable for injuries that occur.
- Equipment manufacturers – Defective power tools, generators, or electrical components can cause electrocution. If a design flaw or manufacturing defect led to an accident, the manufacturer may be responsible.
- Utility companies – If a live power line is improperly maintained or left exposed, the utility provider may be at fault.
Determining liability isn’t always straightforward. A thorough investigation can uncover who failed to maintain a safe work environment. If you or a loved one suffered an electrocution injury, holding the responsible party accountable can help secure the compensation needed for recovery.
Steps to Take After a Construction Electrocution Injury
If you or someone close to you suffers an electrocution injury on a construction site, taking the right steps can protect your health and legal rights.
- Seek medical attention immediately – Even if injuries seem minor, electrocution can cause internal damage. A medical evaluation is critical.
- Report the incident – Notify your employer, site supervisor, or project manager. A formal report ensures the accident is documented.
- Gather evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, exposed wires, faulty equipment, and any visible injuries. If possible, collect witness statements.
- Avoid signing anything prematurely – Employers and insurance companies may try to settle quickly. Speaking with an attorney before accepting an offer helps protect your rights.
- Explore your legal options – You may have a workers’ compensation claim, a personal injury lawsuit, or both. Legal action can help cover medical expenses and lost wages.
Taking these steps can make a difference in securing the compensation you deserve.
How We Can Help You
At Casper Meadows Schwartz & Cook, we understand the devastation an electrocution injury can cause. Medical bills, lost wages, and long-term health complications can put immense stress on you and your family. Our team has years of experience handling construction accident cases, including those involving electrical hazards. We investigate every detail, identify responsible parties, and fight for the compensation you deserve. When negligence leads to serious harm, we work to hold those at fault accountable.
Contact Our Experienced Walnut Creek Electrocution Injury Attorneys
Electrocution injuries on construction sites can have life-altering consequences. When safety is ignored, workers pay the price. If you or a loved one has suffered due to an electrical accident, contact Casper Meadows Schwartz & Cook today for a free consultation.