Saw Blade and Cutting Accidents on New York Construction Sites

Most saw blade accidents on New York construction sites occur due to a lack of training or sufficient equipment upkeep. Faulty or poorly maintained saw blades can cause injuries, and using the wrong type of blade or other incorrect equipment also often leads to employee harm. Missing or broken safety guards on saws increase accident risks, as do inadequate training and operator errors.

New York labor laws provide specific safety requirements and guidelines for using saws and other equipment on construction and other job sites. Additionally, the law mandates that employers provide employees with adequate health and safety protection, ensure all equipment and safeguards are in safe working condition, and supervise all work. Some of New York City’s requirements for saw blades include the following.

• Power-driven saws must provide a fixed guard above the base plate when not on a saw table to prevent operator contact.
• Any hand tool with a cutting edge must be kept in good working condition, including sharpening and monitoring for chips.
• Tools powered by electricity or compressed air must have a power shut-off.
• Safety guards must cover the blade and teeth of the saw.
• Guards should automatically retract after a cut.
• Guards must be in place when the saw is not in use.
• The saw’s switch must be within reach of the operator.
• Table circular saws must have a spreader and a device to prevent kickback.

When these laws are violated, and an injury occurs, victims may file a lawsuit to seek compensation.