Construction Site Accidents During Thanksgiving Week Rush Jobs

Everyone wants to be off work for Thanksgiving. Because of this, it’s common to be thinking about the time you’ll spend with your loved ones around the holiday table — or even the stresses these things can bring — when wrapping up your shortened work week.

This, coupled with the rush that sometimes comes to get that much needed time off, can lead to mistakes in the workplace. And while that may not be dire in some job situations, construction sites can see an increased number of accidents leading to workers’ compensation claims in the last week of November.

At Injury and Health Urgent Care, we can help. Melissa Kempf, MD, and Shannon Wait, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, take workers’ compensation seriously. That may mean assisting you in preventing an accident or treating you when one occurs. 

We go above and beyond for our patients, helping them get the proper assistance and support during this difficult time.  

Why construction sites more see accidents during Thanksgiving week

Construction is among the top five jobs causing fatal workplace injuries, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Sadly, this only increases when workers are distracted or rushed.

These feelings that can come from inside the job or from outside sources. When you’re trying to get home for the holidays, all of this intensifies. Both personal and professional stress can increase during the holidays, making it essential to be aware of the increased danger of accidents in the workplace. 

Additionally, construction sites themselves can be dangerous places. Even those who have been working on them for years can forget protocol or hurry through a step. This can lead to an accident for themselves or someone else. In a job as dangerous as this, vigilance is essential. 

Preventing holiday-related accidents on the job

These preventative steps can help preventi holiday-related accidents on the job:  

1. Take the time to repair or point out workplace hazards to your supervisor, especially before the holidays. 
2. Make sure you have all safety equipment needed to do your job correctly. If you don’t have it, request it.
3. Take your breaks as scheduled, even if you believe yourself capable of working through them. 
4. Get plenty of rest. Don’t try to push yourself harder than is healthy at this time. 
5. Provide your coworkers with understanding during this time. 
6. Avoid increased hours to rush through a job. If you’re often being pressured to do more than you can handle, talk with your supervisor or consider seeking a different opportunity.  

It’s common for construction sites to rush work so it’s done before a long holiday. If you see this happening, consider speaking up and refusing to be put in a dangerous position. Being aware of your employee rights is key to a safe and secure workplace.

What to do if you are injured on your construction job

Even with the best plan in place, accidents still happen. If you are hurt on the job, see a medical provider immediately. 

Our office is open from 8am to 5pm on business days, so please feel free to reach out. If you’re hurt on the weekend or during an actual holiday, don’t hesitate to visit an emergency department. 

This is necessary because, whatever the nature of your injury, immediate treatment for your safe recovery is essential. 

Additionally, if you’re planning to claim workers’ compensation, you’ll need the injury properly documented as soon as it occurs. We are happy to help with the paperwork your employer needs. 

Get help immediately for any worksite injury 

Don’t wait until after the holiday. If you’re hurt, visit a medical provider now to make sure you get the proper treatment and witness to your injury. 

To make an appointment at our San Antonio, TX, office, call or schedule online. We’re happy to provide you with anything you need from medical treatment to assistance with your claim.