Block placement rate is so fast you can take damage

It seems like block placement has been sped incredibly in version 1.2.0+. My main issue is that when I place numerous blocks by holding the button while moving backwards away from the blocks, the columns catch up with me and I take damage (most likely chocking damage). This will not happen if I do the same thing while not moving. Could it be fixed so that you cannot take damage from placing blocks? In my current example I was placing Stone Brick Blocks.

Also, could the block placement rate be an option? I found that the new rate is a bit too fast for my taste, and is more error prone than it is helpful.