Taking Action Against Falls in the Construction Work Zone

What accidents do you think of when you think about construction zones? Perhaps getting hit by a large piece of equipment, like trucks or backhoes. Perhaps you think of an explosives-related accident or falling into a trench. But did you know that falls are one of the leading causes of construction site injuries that lead to injury or death? When a worker falls six feet or more from the ground level, they are at the highest risk of death – and the fact of the matter is that these accidents are highly preventable.

If you work in a construction zone, employers are supposed to be looking out for your safety. In doing so, they must consider the fact that you should have appropriate protective equipment and follow regulations. If you are anywhere above four feet above the ground level, an employer is actually required to provide protective equipment. Other fall protection measures that employers tend to use are stair railings, handrails, safety nets, and safety harnesses. All surfaces must be kept free of dangers, such as keeping floors clean and dry when employees will be walking across them.

Taking Action 

Because accidents like these happen all the time in the workplace but can be prevented, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) held its National Fall Prevention Safety Stand-Down in May 2017. At this time, employers were urged to discuss work fall hazards, company safety policies, protective methods, and more.

It is the duty of your employer to follow safety standards that have been put in place to protect employees. If you believe that your employer did not follow OSHA standards and risked your safety, then this would fall under possible liability. Usually, you would be covered under workers’ compensation laws. You can bring a case against many parties when you have sustained a fall such as property owners, equipment manufacturers, or third party contractors if they played a role. Call us today to get started on your case, so you can see the results that you deserve.