Many construction site accidents happen due to poor safety practices, and some are due to improperly secured scaffolds. Because of the height and the risk of failure, scaffolds cause some of the worst injuries seen in construction. Readers can Click Here for an explanation of scaffolding regulations, as well as tips for victims of scaffolding accidents.
Government Regulations on Scaffolding
OSHA, or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, has implemented rules on the design and usage of scaffolds. These regulations include:
• Design. Every scaffold must be capable of supporting four or five times the weight currently being held, and it must have safety wires.
• Inspection. Every scaffold must be competently inspected before usage to ensure proper function.
Recourse for Victims of Scaffolding Accidents
After becoming the victim of a scaffolding accident, it is important for one to determine the exact cause of the scaffolding’s collapse. By retaining good records and hiring a Scaffold Accident Lawyer in New London CT, one can build a more solid case.
Steps for Employers to Prevent Scaffolding Accidents
OSHA’s guidelines are a minimum standard, required of employers to prevent construction site accidents. However, employers can take other steps to prevent serious injuries. Those steps may include:
• Frequent replacement of scaffolding. This step is costly, but it’s much less expensive than settling an accident suit. Equipment such as safety ropes and belts can wear out quickly in inclement weather.
• Hiring of inspectors. A trained inspector can determine if the scaffold is safe to use, and they can suggest different ways for companies to make the environment safer.
Should an Injured Worker or an Employer Call a Lawyer After a Scaffolding Accident?
Whether one is an employer or an injured worker, a knowledgeable personal injury attorney can be a great help. For victims of such accidents, personal injury lawyers can help recover economic damages for injuries, lost wages and medical bills. For employers, a Scaffold Accident Lawyer in New London CT can offer advice on avoiding excessive or premature liability. By hiring Stephen M. Reck, employers and workers can protect their legal rights and work toward a fair outcome for all.
