What Is a Struck-By Incident?
A struck-by incident occurs when a worker is hit by an object, piece of equipment, or material. These incidents are one of the leading causes of serious injuries in construction.
Common Struck-By Hazards on Our Jobsites
- Moving vehicles or mobile equipment (trucks, forklifts, excavators)
- Falling objects from heights (tools, materials, debris)
- Swinging or rotating equipment (crane loads, excavator buckets)
- Flying objects (grinding, cutting, power tools)
- Materials being lifted, lowered, or stacked improperly
Root Causes
- Poor housekeeping or unsecured materials
- Working too close to moving equipment
- Lack of situational awareness
- Inadequate communication or blind spots
- Missing or improper PPE
How to Prevent Struck-By Incidents
- Stay alert and avoid walking under suspended loads
- Maintain eye contact with equipment operators when possible
- Use spotters and clearly marked exclusion zones
- Secure tools and materials when working at heights
- Wear required PPE, including hard hats and high-visibility clothing
- Follow traffic control plans and equipment operating procedures
Everyone’s Responsibility
- Operators: Know your surroundings and watch for workers on foot
- Workers: Stay out of danger zones and speak up if something looks unsafe
- All employees: Report near misses and hazards immediately
Remember:
If you can see the hazard, it can probably see you. Take a moment to stop, look, and think before
moving into an active work area.
At Stueve Construction, safety isn’t just a checklist—it’s our most vital asset. We believe that protecting our people is the foundation of every successful project. By moving beyond mere compliance and fostering a true culture of accountability, we ensure that every worker returns home safely every night. Through relentless training, top-tier PPE, and an open-door policy on hazard reporting, we turn “safety protocols” into a competitive advantage. When we prioritize the well-being of our team, we don’t just avoid delays; we build a legacy of excellence and trust.
Learn more about Stueve Construction and the solutions we bring to you:
Liquid Fertilizer and Ag Chemical Buildings
Dry Fertilizer River and Port Terminals