Working in the New York construction industry can come with certain risks, especially if you have to work from heights. You understand how important it is to have the equipment and training necessary to do your job as safely as reasonably possible. You have the right to expect your employer to do certain things to keep you safe, including providing equipment, support and education.
Working from heights in construction frequently means using scaffolding to get certain jobs done. This can be risky, especially when safety is not a priority on the job site. If your job requires that you work on scaffolding or you suffered an injury while working on scaffolding, it is prudent to know how to protect your interests, both now and in the future.
Why is scaffolding dangerous?
Scaffolding is often far enough off the ground that a fall represents the potential for serious injury. This is why it is extremely important for employers to prioritize safety for those who may work on these elevated platforms. Some of the most common hazards associated with working on scaffolding include:
- Overloaded scaffolding, leading to collapse
- Unstable scaffolding, causing a collapse
- Workers falling due to lack of fall protection equipment
- Tools or debris falling from scaffolding and striking workers below
- Electrocution from scaffolding coming into contact with power lines
When erecting scaffolding, a site manager must factor in things like the height of the structure, the weight the scaffolding will carry and the type of scaffolding best for the specific project. These are only a few of the issues that will determine how to allow construction workers do their jobs as safely as possible.
One important safety matter is the provision of fall protection equipment. Employers have to provide this equipment if the scaffolding is more than 10 feet above a lower level. This equipment can mean the difference between life and death for an employee if there is a fall.
Hurt in a fall?
If you suffered injuries in a work accident, you could be entitled to certain benefits and support through a workers’ compensation claim. If you fell off scaffolding, your injuries could be quite severe, and you could need substantial support and compensation for your recovery.
It is in your interests to work with an experienced attorney if you need to file a workers’ compensation claim. From completing the initial claim to dealing with any appeals that may be necessary, you do not have to walk through this process alone.