Construction industry accidents in Spain

Problem: This paper analyzed industrial accidents that take place on construction sites and their severity. Method: Eighteen variables were studied. We analyzed the influence of each of these with respect to the severity and fatality of the accident. This descriptive analysis was grounded in 1,630,452 accidents, representing the total number of accidents suffered by workers in the construction sector in Spain over the period 1990-2000. Results: It was shown that age, type of contract, time of accident, length of set-vice in the company, company size, day of the week, and the remainder of the variables under analysis influenced the seriousness of the accident. Impact on injury prevention: The results obtained show that different training was needed, depending on the severity of accidents, for different age, length of service in the company, organization of work, and time when workers work. Impact on industry: The research provides an insight to the likely causes of construction injuries in Spain. As a result of the analysis, industries and governmental agencies in Spain can start to provide appropriate strategies and training to the construction workers. (C) 2008 National Safety Council and Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.