If you work on construction sites, you are probably not a stranger to steel-reinforced bars. Commonly called rebar, these rods run through concrete to give it strength and stability. Still, rebar can be exceedingly dangerous for construction workers.
Before you work with or near rebar you should wear appropriate protective gear. You should also understand the risks that come often come with rebar so you can avoid or otherwise mitigate them. Here are some of the more common ones.
Impalement
Rebar tends to be long and sharp, so it can put in danger of impalement. This happens when rebar passes through part of the body or embeds in it. Unfortunately, because rebar often has ribbing to help it grip concrete, it can be somewhat difficult for doctors to remove.
Lacerations
Rebar does not have to impale you to cause you to suffer catastrophic injuries. Indeed, sharp edges on the rebar can slice through your skin. While minor lacerations might not be too concerning, deep ones can lead to blood loss, ligament damage and musculoskeletal injuries.
Tetanus
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tetanus is a potentially deadly infection that comes from environmental bacteria. If rebar punctures or cuts your skin, tetanus-causing bacteria can enter your soft tissues or bloodstream. Luckily, it is possible for construction workers to receive tetanus vaccines before working with rebar.
Because you probably cannot avoid rebar on every construction site, you eventually might suffer a life-changing injury when working with it. Ultimately, pursuing workers’ compensation benefits might be necessary to ensure you receive the competent medical care you need to recover completely.
