Caught-in and caught-between injuries occur when a worker gets squeezed, caught, crushed, pinched, or compressed between two or more objects. These incidents are one of OSHA’s “Focus Four Construction Hazards,” along with falls, electrocution, and struck-by accidents—representing the most dangerous types of construction site accidents and the leading causes of fatal injuries.
It’s easy to see how caught-in and caught-between accidents can happen: moving equipment parts without safeguards, tipping heavy machinery, and trench cave-ins can all result in serious injury or death. These incidents are often caused by negligence, improper procedures, or failure to follow safety standards.
Caught-between Hazards on Construction Sites are Preventable, but Still Happen
In 2020, 142 construction workers died due to caught-in/between incidents, per the Center for Construction Research and Training. These accidents are also a major cause of nonfatal injuries.
Common Caught-in and Caught-between Hazards
Construction workers face high risk for being caught between equipment or objects. While being crushed is the most obvious danger, many scenarios can lead to entrapment.
For example, a worker might fall into a machine and become trapped, requiring another person to assist in rescue. Or they might get caught in debris following an explosion—where there may be no time for evacuation.
How to Prevent Caught-in and Caught-between Injuries
According to OSHA’s Quick Card for the Top Four Construction Hazards, prevention starts with best practices:
- Train employees on the safe operation of equipment, tools, PPE, scaffolding, and hoists.
- Educate workers on job-specific hazards and what to do if they get caught in/between something.
- Never enter an unprotected trench or excavation 5 feet or deeper without proper protective systems—some trenches under 5 feet also require protection.
- Use sloping, shoring, benching, or trench shield systems.
There are additional steps safety teams can take to reduce the risk of these incidents:
1) Commit to Following All Safety Protocols on the Jobsite
Everyone must prioritize safety and work as a team. This helps ensure compliance with rules, enables effective communication, and minimizes distractions or knowledge gaps that could lead to injury.
OSHA requires employers to protect workers from caught-in/between and struck-by hazards. This includes:
- Meeting OSHA standards for heavy equipment and vehicles
- Providing high-visibility PPE
- Offering training for equipment use
- Ensuring proper qualification of operators, riggers, signal persons, and competent persons
2) Inspect Equipment Daily for Safety
Daily equipment inspections are not only smart—they’re required by OSHA.
Inspections are especially important with new employees or new equipment. Check that moving parts are in good condition, no exposed sharp edges or loose bolts exist, and all guards are installed and functioning properly.
Continue inspecting equipment every six months or more frequently based on wear, use, or environmental conditions.
3) Perform Frequent, Unannounced Spot-Checks of Operations
Spot-check strategies include:
- Observing workers during shifts
- Asking about tasks and identifying potential risks
- Watching equipment use to verify safe practices
Spot-checks should be conducted by someone other than the direct supervisor to keep them educational, not punitive. The goal is to promote learning and safety—not discipline.
4) Conduct Routine “Toolbox Talks” to Review Safety Compliance
Toolbox meetings—brief 10- to 15-minute sessions—help workers understand hazards and how to prevent them.
These meetings supplement your safety program and reinforce OSHA regulations. They’re a simple but effective way to keep safety top-of-mind on the jobsite.
By staying informed, vigilant, and committed to safety protocols, we can prevent caught-in and caught-between incidents—and ensure everyone goes home safely at the end of the day!
Until next time…Work Safe & Be Safe!
