Thousands of Violations Found in NYC Construction Safety Audit

Lever & Ecker, PLLC May 24, 2022 Construction Accidents

Following a series of construction-related deaths, The New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) commenced a citywide zero-tolerance construction safety campaign on June 1, 2021. The DOB conducted thousands of inspections throughout the city, hoping to stop the increasing construction worker fatality rates. 

During these sweeps, city inspectors looked closely to see if required safety systems and regulations are being followed. 

What Are the Results of the NYC Construction Safety Audit?

On September 13, 2021, the Department of Buildings released data on the results of the Zero Tolerance safety enforcement sweeps. Within three months of the sweeps, inspectors issued over 3,600 violations to contractors and professionals for safety issues within construction companies. Across New York City, the DOB issued around 1,499 stop-work orders due to the many violations. 

These appalling results point to the significant dangers construction workers face daily. With this data showcasing severe issues inside construction companies and management, New Yorkers push for government officials to take a stand and help protect workers from violations. Many hope that the zero-tolerance sweeps mark the beginning of an increase in worker protection in the New York construction industry.

New York City Construction Accident Claims

From high buildings to dangerous bulldozers, construction sites have dangerous locations and equipment that put workers at grave risk. While there are many ways for a New York construction accident to occur, the following are a few of the most common :

• Crane accidents
• Falls from ladders
• Falls from roofs
• Falls from Scaffolding
• Dangerous tools and machinery
• Electrocution
• Equipment malfunction
• Explosions and fires
• Falling objects and debris
• Forklift accidents
• Toxic chemical exposure
• Welding and brazing accidents

Due to employee vulnerability, many laws and regulations are in place to protect workers from dangers. However, when an individual or group disregards the safety of workers, the injured person may seek compensation.

Are You Eligible to Recover Compensation for Your Losses?

The severe injuries and other losses you suffer after a construction accident may place a heavy burden on you and your family. While financial compensation may not completely replace your losses, it can provide you the opportunity to recover from the injuries you suffer.

Consider the following types of damages you may be eligible to recover with experienced legal representation:

• Pain and suffering (past and future)
• Lost income or wages (past and future)
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Hospital and treatment costs
• Prescription medication
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy fees
• Other out-of-pocket expenses

While the workers’ compensation laws limit your ability to sue your own employer, you can seek compensation for your injuries from others, including the property owner, the project manager, a product manufacturer, and others that may be responsible for your injuries. 

Call Lever & Ecker, PLLC for an Experienced Construction Accident Lawyer 

Construction accidents occur for various reasons and can cause severe, life-threatening injuries. The losses you suffer from an accident can leave you with long-term disabilities and changes in your life. You deserve to seek compensation and hold the responsible party accountable for the damages you suffer.

When you work with a construction accident lawyer at Lever & Ecker, PLLC you will have legal representation you can trust. We have over 65 years of combined legal experience working with individuals across New York and will do everything in our power to provide you with the best possible outcome for your claim. Our award-winning lawyers will tailor their services specifically to you and your claims needs. 

Call (914) 288-9191 or (718) 933-3632, or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation today.