If you work in the construction industry in the state of New York, you have a significantly higher risk of being injured while in the workplace than, say, an office worker. This is because there are many hazards that are associated with construction sites. These include the operation and presence of heavy machinery, toxic chemicals, the danger of falling objects and structures, and, of course, the propensity for workers to work from heights.
When a person falls from height, serious injuries and even death can occur. While the height itself can be a significant factor in the seriousness of the fall, it is possible to suffer life changing injuries even when falling from relatively small elevations. Falling from elevations of just one or two meters can prove to be serious, especially when the person falls on their head or back.
Construction accidents and falls
In the construction industry, it has been reported that the leading cause of injuries is the occurrence of falls, which account for 48 percent of construction site injuries and 30 percent of construction site deaths. It is vital that construction site managers make sure that fall prevention is a priority at all times.
Falls from scaffolding and other structures is often due to the improper maintenance of the structure. It could be holding too much weight or not built in the safest way.
If you have been injured because of falling from height on a construction site, you may have reason to believe that your employer was negligent and operated business in a dangerous way. Alternatively, you may believe that the incident was simply an accident that could not have been easily prevented.
No matter the circumstances of the accident, it is important that you seek medical attention and that you report the incident as a workplace injury to your employer as soon as possible. They will then have the duty to provide workers’ compensation papers so that you can report the incident and gain back any compensation that you are owed.
It is important that you understand your rights as an injured worker in the state of New York and that you take action for compensation.