Are Construction Occupations as Dangerous as They Seem?
Written by SayBuild Administration // November 14, 2016 // Building Contractors // Comments Off on Are Construction Occupations as Dangerous as They Seem?
We’ve all heard the terrifying stories of construction jobs gone terribly wrong. A nail gun goes off and a worker surprisingly survives a nail lodging into his head. Scaffolding breaks and leaves a crew dangling by their safety restraints. The construction industry, difficult and often underrated, is not for the faint of heart, but is it as dangerous of an occupation as it may seem?
Do you like to work with your hands and are considering working in the industry? Here are some pros and cons to help you make an informed and safer decision:
The Pros of Construction Work
It’s an understatement to say that the construction industry is valuable, as without it, we would literally be without house and home. In addition to being an essential industry in our daily lives, here are some other “pros”:
- Job Security:
As communities expand and see a demand for housing and businesses, there continues to be a need for skilled workers. As long as this demand remains high and/or consistent, construction workers are likely to have work. - Pay:
Depending on the type of work one does in construction, the median pay is anywhere from $30,000 to over $80,000 annually. - Have Skills, Will Travel:
If you are a skilled in construction work, your skills are relevant wherever you decide to go, which can allow you to work year round. For instance, if you enjoy outside construction, but don’t want to work outside in the winter, you can travel to warmer parts of the country for work. - No Need for a College Degree:
While some jobs within the construction industry require or recommend having a specialized degree from a college, most construction jobs only require a high school diploma or an equivalent. - Working Outdoors:
If you enjoy working in the outdoors, many jobs will give you the opportunity to enjoy the best weather of the seasons.
The Cons of Construction Work
As with everything, there are bad things to go along with the good. While it is one of the most dangerous industries to work in, it’s not the only one. Here are some “cons” to consider:
- Job Placement May Be Inconsistent:
Despite the demand, construction jobs are not always consistent or constant, making many skilled workers without work. - Little Pay, Hard Work:
While some construction jobs are lucrative, others are low paying. Construction work is strenuous and the hours can be long. For some workers, it may not be worth the hard work. - High Risk of Injuries:
Working construction is not only hard work, but it’s a risky occupation. From back strain to being struck by falling objects and falling to one’s death are all possibilities on job sites. - Working in All Climates:
When the weather is ideal, working outdoors is not an issue. However, sweltering hot days and inclement weather can make a job difficult and a jobsite more hazardous. Wet surfaces from rain can lead to an increase in slip and fall accidents while hot temps can increase the