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Focus Four Campaign 2024

puzzle peices of focus four are electrical, falls, caugh-in / between and struck by

The primary cause of injuries and deaths in the construction sector is the Focus Four Hazards. To address occurrence of future injuries and fatalities, OSHA, alongside of state plans, consultation projects, and construction industry allies have launched a campaign run from March to June within Region Three’s jurisdiction. This initiative aims to enhance awareness about recognizing, assessing, and mitigating these hazards through toolbox talks, site visits, and practical educational sessions for both employers and workers, with the goal of preventing future incidents.

Construction's "Fatal Four"

Out of 5,486 worker fatalities in private industry in calendar year 2022 (1), 1069 or 19% were in construction―that is, approximately one in five worker deaths were in construction.

In 2022, according to reports from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, falls emerged as the primary cause of worker fatalities on construction sites, closely trailed by incidents involving struck-by, electrocutions, and caught-in/between. These "Fatal Four" hazards collectively accounted for more than half (58%) of all construction worker deaths.

  • Falls - 410 (38%)
  • Struck by Object - 88 (8%)
  • Electrocutions - 62 (~ 6%)
  • Caught -in/between - (~6%)

Eliminating these Four Hazards would save a minimum of 620 workers’ lives.

As indicated above, the Focus Four Hazards are responsible for the majority of fatalities and severe injuries in the construction sector. Help spread the word and save a life!

Please be advised that the Focus Four campaign spans four months, and schedule campaign is outlined as below:

  • March - Electrical Hazards
  • April - Struck-by Hazards
  • May - Fall Hazards
  • June - Caught-in/Between

If you would like more information pertaining to the campaign or an MOSH/OSHA representative to visit your work location, please feel free to contact designated Focus Four email address, OSHA-Focus4-Region3@dol.gov or mosh.consultation@maryland.gov

Other toolbox talks can be found at: