Understanding OSHA’s Focus Four: The Most Critical Construction Hazards You Need to Know
- David Barnhouse
- Jul 30
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 23
In terms of workplace safety, particularly for construction workers, OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) emphasizes the "Focus Four" hazards, which are the four most common causes of death in the construction sector. These are:

These dangers are responsible for the bulk of on-the-job deaths annually, and education alone won't cut it. That is why Island CERTS Corporation incorporates Focus Four subject matter into its OSHA-approved safety training courses. Hence, all employees are aware of the dangers and how to minimize them.
1. Falls: The Leading Killer on Construction Sites
Falls from elevation, ladders, scaffolds, or open edges, continue to be the primary risk. Through our 30-Hour Construction Outreach Training, employees are instructed:
How to use personal fall arrest systems (PFAS)
Good ladder and scaffold safety
Site-specific hazard identification
2. Struck-By Hazards
Striking by tools, materials, or vehicles can result in serious injury or death. ICC's heavy equipment and telehandler training focus on:
Equipment blind spots
Material handling safety
PPE and situational awareness
3. Caught-In/Between Hazards
Such as trench collapse, machine entanglement, or pinning between equipment. Our Hazwoper and Heavy Equipment Safety courses cover:
Safe equipment operation
Lockout/tagout procedures
Excavation safety protocols
4. Electrocution
Even secondary contact with live equipment or wires can be deadly. ICC training makes sure workers know:
Overhead power line safety
Correct grounding
How to use Electrical PPE
Why It Matters
By tackling the Focus Four, ICC strives not only to comply with OSHA requirements but save lives. All trainings are instructed by qualified professionals, incorporating real-world scenarios and hands-on training.
Train Smart. Stay Safe.
Whether you're a contractor, site manager, or entry-level employee, knowing and preventing the Focus Four hazards is not optional. Let Island CERTS Corporation provide the information and training that keeps you and your crew safe.
At Island CERTS Corporation, safety is not just a requirement, it’s our mission. Whether you're in construction, heavy equipment, or general industry, we’re here to ensure your team is trained, certified, and protected. If you're looking for OSHA training in Guam, or want to enroll in reliable, hands-on safety training in Guam, Island CERTS is your trusted local provider. Get trained the right way, because safety starts with knowledge.








