b'(continued from page 1) INJURY IMPACTSUPPORTING INJURED EMPLOYEES Construction workers are especially at risk for TBIs dueThe earlier a construction team intervenes with a to the inherently dangerous and physically demandingTBI, the better the chances of survival. Studies show nature of their work. Inadequate training, improper PPEthat half of TBI deaths occur within two hours of the and impaired judgment from fatigue may also lead to dan- injury. Every case is different and will requireger on the jobsite.individualized treatment, but adequate response And its not just a physical risk. Mental health is a seriousmeans fellow workers and construction managers problem in the construction industry, with workers expe-riencing extreme exhaustion, burnout and stress on theshould monitor the injured individual for newjob. TBIs can significantly contribute to this dire situa- symptoms as medical care arrives.tion, especially if the individual has chronic pain and is unable to return to work.Providing staff with mental health aid likeDifficulty concentrating, memory lapse and delayed pro- counseling and support groups can make a difference cessing are just some of the cognitive issues that may during recovery. Construction decision makers exacerbate mental health decline. Increased irritability,should remain patient and understanding as thepersonality changes, disrupted sleep, mood disorders andinjured laborers adjust to the changes in theirpost-traumatic stress disorder are also common amongabilities, providing reasonable accommodation if TBI patients.they return to work. Assisting the family during re-Mental health stigma may also prevent many fromseeking help for the emotional and mental pain they havecovery by offering support and pointing them toward after a head injury. Likewise, they may be unaware of thesuitable organizations can also help. available resources and support.Team leaders should inspect and secure theconstruction site on a daily basis to ensure it follows PREPARE AND PREVENTall safety protocols. Additionally, they mustOnsite construction safety is non-negotiable in preventingreinforce safety procedures and training for allTBIs and all other construction injuries. Construction en- individuals on the job. Protecting everyone at the terprises must provide the necessary PPE, including hardworksite should be the industrys top priority,hats, safety goggles, high-visibility clothing and nonslipensuring all know how to protect themselves and boots to avoid head injuries from hard impacts, fallingtheir teams from harm. objects, loss of footing and eye damage. For in-stance, flying debris thrown by heavy equipment canseverely harm workers who do not wear the proper gear. Other ways to protect construction workers from a TBIBy: Evelyn Long include: Installing guardrails and safety harnesses for those working at heights Regularly testing and maintaining all equipment and machinery to ensure it works correctly Providing comprehensive training to all workers on safety protocols and equipment use Promoting open and transparent communication amongst construction teams so everyone is aware ofpotential hazards Conducting regular risk assessments to determine potential dangers on the construction site and find areas for improvement Ensuring the worksite is clutter-free to decrease the risk of falls, trips and slips Encouraging workers to remain aware and on high alert of their surroundings and the potential hazards throughout the day Additionally, construction companies shouldimplement prompt reporting procedures in case of an incident. Documenting a TBIincluding theresponse and why it occurredis critical to ensure proper support for the employee post-injury. 20'