Construction Site Safety Failures Prompted New Regulations

In 2006, fatal construction accidents grew in New York City rising 61% during the building boom that year. Many of the victims were Hispanic immigrants who were employed by small contractors in non-union related jobs. It was found that workers falling from hanging scaffolds were the largest reason for the increase in fatalities.

Officials from OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and the New York City Buildings Department vowed to have vigorous safety inspections done and un- announced inspections to curb the dangerous trend of accidents. OSHA's area director at that time, Richard Mendelson, stated that the fatalities which occurred were preventable. He felt that the employers put workers at unnecessary risk by cutting corners and not observing safety standards properly.

New Safety Standards

As a result of the increase in construction accidents, Buildings Department tightened safety requirements in numerous areas and a new city law took effect requiring that any supported scaffold over forty feet high has to have a Buildings Department permit. Additionally, anyone erecting, repairing or taking down a scaffold must have a minimum of 32 hours of training and anyone using the scaffold must have a minimum of 4 hours of training. (One story stand-alone side-walk shed scaffolds were not included in the new law.)

When an Accident Occurs

When negligence does occur and workers get injured on a construction site, those responsible should be held accountable. If you have been injured in a construction accident in the New York City or surrounding area, you need to contact a New York City construction accident attorney who can help you get compensation for any injuries. You may be in a situation where medical expenses will be high and you may have lost the ability to work either temporarily or permanently. At Hochheiser & Hochheiser LLP, we are personal injury attorneys who have the experience you need to file a claim in your defense and at least help you gain some financial compensation for your losses. With our help, you can start working toward a brighter future.

Contact a New York City Construction Accident Attorney in our office for a free consultation and we will look at the details of your case.