Call us 24/7 / Free Consultation
Scaffolding is a temporary structure with a platform that gives construction workers access to higher levels of buildings and supports both workers and their tools. Scaffolds are used alongside bridges, exterior and interior walls of buildings, and in various other places where an elevated platform is necessary to perform work. While these scaffolds are essential for the performance of all types of construction jobs, they also have significant risks.
Unlocked or defective wheels, unsecure platforms, faulty or absent handrails, falling objects, and other similar issues can, in an instant, cause severe, life-threatening harm to construction workers and anyone around the equipment. Everyone using scaffolding must take the necessary precautions to stay safe and keep others from harm. If you suffer serious personal injuries as the result of work on a scaffold, contact our White Plains scaffold injury lawyers at Lever & Ecker, PLLC. We understand the challenges and frustrations you face after a severe accident and will do everything we can to obtain for you the compensation you deserve.
While the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), among other federal, state and local authorities,provides safety guidelines for construction workers and scaffolding, accidents still occur, and the injuries may be severe. The following are a few examples of injuries someone may suffer in a scaffolding accident:
Many factors contribute to the severity of an individual’s injuries after a scaffolding accident. The area of impact, type of falling object, and other elements will significantly affect an accident’s severity level. If an individual suffers serious injuries, they must immediately seek medical care.
Property owners and contractors must strictly adhere to the applicable scaffolding rules and regulations, including those promulgated under New York State’s Industrial Code. Nevertheless, some of these companies fail to properly abide by these specific and strict rules, which are designed to keep workers safe. For example:
New York has many labor laws and regulations designed to protect construction workers from serious injury. However, some still fail to abide by the rules and end up causing severe accidents. Contact an experienced lawyer to learn more about your legal options after a scaffolding accident.
While scaffolds are dangerous areas, there are many ways to stay safe when working on or around one. If you take the necessary precautions, you can reduce the likelihood of an accident. Consider the following actions that can protect you while working around scaffolds:
When working in any construction setting, wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential. For example, wearing a hard hat can prevent serious injuries from falling objects, which is one of the most common causes of injuries involving scaffolds. There are specific safety equipment requirements to which owners, contractors and companies must adhere.
Before work is started on a scaffold, the scaffold, including the platform, supports and wheels must be inspected.. A quick but thorough evaluation will make sure there are no defects or damage to the structural integrity of the scaffold. Keep an eye out for mismatching materials or anything that may affect the structural integrity of the scaffold.
Heavy equipment and large vehicles must stay clear of the scaffolding base. Most construction companies will place barriers and other heavy equipment around or on the structure to make sure no one comes close to the bottom of the structure.
Common types of scaffold accidents are those in which a worker falls from a scaffold. Scaffold accidents also result from falling objects. Keeping equipment and materials organized will reduce the likelihood of tripping over or pushing objects off the side of the structure. All workers must also put away their materials to try to keep everyone from tripping on or falling off the scaffolding.
Owners, contractors and employers must provide proper fall prevention equipment and take protective measures to ensure their workers’ safety. When they do not provide the necessary safety equipment for workers, they may suffer the legal consequences of their actions.
Construction accidents are some of the most severe workplace accidents in New York. The severity of these injuries may require extensive medical treatment and cause significant financial losses. Our award-winning scaffold injury lawyers at Lever & Ecker, PLLC understand the challenges you face after an accident, and while you are hopefully on the way to recovery. With over 65+ years of combined experience protecting our clients’ rights, we have the resources and connections to provide you with the best possible legal representation.
Schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers by calling (914) 288-9191or fill out our contact form.
