Anyone who currently works or has worked in construction knows that it’s a risky profession. Working on high-rise buildings and operating heavy and dangerous machinery comes with the job, but it also brings risks that people in other professions simply don’t have to be concerned about.
Construction work can and does lead to serious accidents. Injuries from these accidents can change the trajectory of your life permanently, so it’s a good idea to understand what types of dangers are most responsible for the accidents that do occur.
Here are some of the most common causes of constructions accidents in New York.
Absence of Safety Measures
Construction accidents can happen no matter where you are, from populated inner cities to more rural areas. But one thing that construction has in common no matter where it happens: If there’s a lack of safety measures taken, then people will get hurt – or even die.
If a construction worker doesn’t follow the set safety guidelines while at work, mistakes can turn deadly for them or those around them. However, sometimes construction workers aren’t made aware of the procedures that are supposed to be in place, because those in charge don’t make safety a priority.
Negligence of Employees
Another common cause of construction accidents in New York is negligence on behalf of the employees. If those working on the job site are not properly trained or supervised appropriately, then it can lead to accidents. Also, workers who may be sleep deprived or who work with equipment with which they are not familiar can cause accidents. These can lead to serious injuries and even death.
The truth of the matter is that the construction field is dangerous, and, on top of the hazards that are naturally a part of the work, some of the additional risks are created by humans. Something that seems innocent, like poor communication, but it can be deadly on a construction site.
Subpar Working Conditions
Working in conditions that are unsafe is another one of the risks associated with construction. It puts you in a position of possibly being hurt or killed when the environment is hazardous – or, in some way, the environment makes it a challenge to work safely.
Also, not wearing the proper safety equipment or the right clothing on the job site can put a worker at risk. Humans are prone to accidents, which is why these factors make it a challenge to work effectively and safely.
Company managers and property owners are responsible for the working conditions of a construction job. It puts workers at risk if the worksite:
- Isn’t maintained appropriately
- Is unsanitary
- Is guarded poorly
Inadequate Supervision
Construction sites all have supervisors whose job is to oversee the workers. They manage employees to ensure that they are operating in a safe and correct way. However, in cases where supervision is lacking, safety protocols may not be followed, and things may not be done the way they should.
If supervisors fail to appropriately assign duties, provide a safe work environment, and oversee the operations, then they are putting their workers’ lives at risk and creating an unsafe work environment.
If you are a construction worker involved in an accident or the family member of one, then there are laws in New York to protect you. They can help you to get compensation for injury or death. Meet with an experienced attorney to go over your case and find out how to get the compensation you deserve.