Steps New York Construction Contractors Can Take to Prevent Falls

Falls are the leading cause of fatalities and catastrophic injuries on New York’s construction sites. According to the 2009 Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries Summary, 617 people were killed in work-related falling accidents in the United States. About half of all falling accidents that occur on jobsites involve construction activity. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the most common cause of fatal injuries to construction workers. There are a number of steps that construction contractors, companies and property owners can take to help reduce the chances of a fatal falling accident.
Ladders are very often involved in New York construction falling accidents. Construction companies need to help their workers understand the right time to use a ladder and when it could be safer to use scaffolding or a mechanical lift. If a ladder is all that is needed, it must be determined if the ladder is strong and long enough. Ladders must be able to comfortably rest on stable ground. The ladder should be able to extend three feet (or three rungs) above the surface that the construction worker is trying to reach. Additionally, supervision should be provided for workers using a ladder at all times.
When scaffolds are used, they must be properly braced and they must be placed on solid, even surfaces. Only experienced construction workers should utilize mechanical lifts and they should not be used near power lines, which could pose a risk of electrocution. Workers who are high up or working on a roof should be provided safety harnesses and anchors. In particularly dangerous situations, safety nets should be provided below where the work is taking place.
Anyone who has suffered an injury or loss in a New York construction accident would be well advised to seek legal guidance from an experienced personal injury attorney. The knowledgeable New York personal injury lawyers at the Law Offices of Kenneth A. Wilhelm help the injured workers of New York get the compensation they need and rightfully deserve.
Call us today at 1-800-WORK-4-YOU (1-800-967-5496) for a no-cost consultation and comprehensive assessment of your personal injury or wrongful death claim. We can also help with personal injury cases in New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, or Florida. If you have been seriously injured in any of the 50 U.S. states, please call us and we will try to help you with your case.
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Source: OSHA