One of the most important considerations for New York City and state construction companies is making sure workers are safe. Problems on a New York City job site can slow progress, negatively affecting timelines and outcomes for clients. Even when all goes well on a construction site in the Bronx, the hard labor takes a toll on construction employees. In worst case scenarios, a worker who becomes a victim of an accident due to negligence on a construction site can lose income or even their life.
When an employee gets injured on a construction site, attorney Minc suggests they find someone to advocate for their rights under the law, like a Bronx personal injury attorney who has the experience and resources necessary to obtain maximum compensation for those affected. You may be owed money for your losses if faulty construction site safety measures have caused you to be injured by accidents caused by:
- Malfunctioning or inadequate safety equipment
- Unstable scaffolding
- Falling objects
- Malfunctioning machinery
- Welding accidents
- Falls from height
- Hazardous chemicals
- Demolition accidents
- Improperly handled materials
- Falls into pits or holes
- Electrocution
- Injuries from unsafe ladders
- Slip and fall accidents
- Crane accidents
- Hit-by unsafe equipment
- Unsafe conditions
Duties of Construction Companies
On a New York state construction site, compliance to rigorous safety standards is paramount. Not only must the success of the project be prioritized, but also the well-being of all workers. Workers who suffer life-altering falls and injuries on hazardous Bronx construction sites may be entitled to substantial compensation. Compliance, safety, and successful completion of construction projects can be ensured by focusing on the following:
- Mitigate risk: Eliminating all safety risks on a construction site is unrealistic due to the nature of the work. The goal should be to avoid dangerous problems by having procedures to identify, report, assess, and address potential safety risks.
- Provide safety training: Regulations, safety protocols, and best practices should be regularly communicated to supervisors who should relay that information to workers. Investing in educational and training programs ensures workers will be aware of potential dangers and how to avoid them. Additionally, enrolling workers in first aid classes can equip them with essential skills to respond effectively in case of accidents or medical emergencies on-site.
- Open communication: Keeping all workers informed on safety standards and daily changes is vital to ensuring safety on a job site. Install clear signage indicating potential risks and designating areas of concern.
- Secure entry and exits: Highly visible signage should indicate important things such as first aid, emergency fire equipment, restrooms, and entry and exit points.
- Environmental conditions: Environmental conditions such as rapidly worsening weather can pose significant safety hazards. All workers should be made aware of emergency response plans and evacuation routes in the event of sudden severe weather or an unexpected natural disaster.
- Chemical storage compliance: Potential hazards from dangerous chemicals can be avoided by confirming materials are properly stored in designated areas. Safe storage can prevent spills, fire caused by explosions, and other chemical injuries. Specially designed storage solutions should be used to minimize the risks presented by on-site chemicals.
- Provide protective equipment: All individuals on a construction site should be wearing appropriate and adequate personal protective equipment. Employers are obligated to ensure workers are protected by making certain they wear helmets, safety goggles, harnesses, high visibility vests, and gloves, depending on the nature of work and hazards present.
- Electrical equipment: The potential hazards from defects or malfunctioning electrical equipment can be avoided by regularly inspecting equipment to ensure safety.
- Secure objects: Ensuring the construction site is clear of debris can prevent tripping hazards and avoid dangerous falls. Securing objects also minimizes risk from objects falling from heights.
- First aid: Basic first aid on a construction site includes everything necessary for anyone injured on-site to have access to immediate wound care for common construction-related injuries. Providing access to appropriate first aid can reduce the impact of injuries and minimize the severity of minor accidents.
Conclusion
Construction companies must always protect their workers as well as the business’ best interests by taking measures to ensure safety on job sites. It is an utmost priority that effective safety measures be considered, implemented, and enforced.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured or experienced loss of life due to unsafe working conditions on a Bronx or New York City construction site, seek the guidance of a lawyer who cares and understands your legal situation. You need someone who will fight for the monetary compensation you deserve after losing the ability to earn wages and continue life as you knew it before. Call a personal injury attorney for a free consultation about your construction site accident.
