Construction site accident and the dangers of a pick-me-up

Many construction workers, especially younger ones, know what it is to live fast. Early starts, long and physically intensive hours on the job and, for some, evenings spent in the pub or out clubbing. Against such a background it can be tempting to seek whatever pick-me-up is available in order to stay alert and concentrated when returning to another day at work. Perhaps the most popular pick-me-up is coffee, but it is also worth considering how consuming an excessive amount of caffeine may contribute to causing a construction site accident.

While it is true that by just drinking a few cups of coffee a tired worker may reduce his chances of becoming involved in a construction site accident, as a few coffees will enhance general alertness and concentration, drinking too much coffee can actually disturb the central nervous system to such a degree that a worker may experience a variety of unhelpful symptoms.

Too much coffee - typically seven espressos or five cups of instant coffee - can result in a person suffering restlessness, anxiety, vomiting, headaches and general volatility of mood.

It may also cause insomnia, in the long run leading to the kind of entrenched tiredness that can be such a danger on building sites.

It is also worth bearing in mind the danger inherent in mixing caffeine with certain prescription drugs while working on a building site. For example, some antibiotics (such as Ciprofloxacin and Noroxin) can increase the negative effects of caffeine; while taking Theophylline in conjunction with caffeine (a bronchial relaxant) may result in severe nausea; also, Ephedra, a dietary supplement found in some herbal teas, when taken with caffeine may contribute to harmful long-term side-effects.

Ideally, workers will not be exposed to the kinds of stresses that might contribute to them feeling they need to drink so much coffee to cope.

The Health and Safety Executive has identified a "top five" list of construction-related work pressures. They are: having too much work to do in the time available; travelling or commuting; being responsible for the safety of others at work; working long hours; and
having a dangerous job.

However, in the event a worker is exposed to these stresses, drinking too much coffee will very likely provide only short-term relief; a much more effective method of coping will always be having the right support in place.

No win, no fee work accident lawyers of distinction
All employers in the UK have a duty to ensure their workers are not placed under dangerous amounts of stress. Such a remit includes ensuring workers do not work too many hours, are not asked to perform tasks unsuitable for their skill-bases, and are protected from injury in every way that is reasonable and possible.

If you believe that your employer has neglected these responsibilities and you have sustained injury as a result, you may be able to claim compensation.

All our construction accident solicitors are governed by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, and by observing its Code of Conduct work to ensure you receive the most professional service possible.

While representing you in this kind of claim, we ensure that you are never liable for any costs, fees, charges or disbursements. Win or lose, your claim will be cost free from start to finish.

And with our 100% compensation promise, you can be sure that we will never take a cut of any award you receive.

Our legal advisors can be reached online or over the telephone.

Call one now on 0800 10 757 95 to give them the details of your construction site accident.

Alternatively, fill out an internet claim form, use echat, or request a callback.