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Due to the nature of their job, New York construction workers are at particular risk of suffering an injury at work. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), ten percent of all work related deaths are due to falls at construction sites.
Common points of equipment failure in scaffolding accidents in NY
Most injuries and deaths from a NY scaffolding accident are not the result of extremely dangerous conditions such as falling off the top of a skyscraper but rather, from routine activities. In fact, 41 percent of all falls are from ladders. Ladders and scaffolding pose a particular threat to construction workers who can easily become distracted or lose their footing in a proper, balanced position while on them.
In addition, scaffolding is often improperly built or lacking sufficient safety. The following scaffolding parts are particularly prone to neglect and failure to check those results in many NYC scaffolding accidents:
- Scaffold base-should be set on a firm surface that can handle weight.
- Fastening pins-must be used at all frame connection points.
- Guard railing-there should be top and mid rails in place in all situations where a worker could fall ten feet or more.
- Side brackets-if in use they are designed to support people only and a load not exceeding 500 pounds.
- Adjusting screws-should be used for adjustments in uneven grade conditions.
- Toe-boards-need to be in place on every side of the work platform that is ten feet or higher.
- Work platform decking-all work levels must be completely decked and consider load capacities.
In addition, OSHA recommends the following safety precautions to avoid a scaffolding injury in NY:
- Inspect all ladders prior to each use
- Promptly remove the defective ladder from use and label it “Do not use”
- Do not exceed the maximum load for a ladder
- Set up the ladder safely (barricade traffic areas such as doorways, etc.)
- Be cautious around live electricity
- Always maintain three points of contact with the ladder(a combination of hands and feet)
- Do not overextend on a ladder—keep your midsection between the side rails to maintain your center of gravity
Personal injury attorneys have in-depth knowledge of NY scaffolding accident law. We have successfully represented many clients who have been the victims of construction accidents in New York City. If you have been injured in a fall from a ladder or scaffolding due to improper safety measures, you may be eligible to pursue a scaffolding accident lawsuit against the responsible party. Call us today for a free consultation.
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