Construction Site and Scaffolding Accidents

Construction site and scaffolding accidents are generally serious.  Imagine a site where different subcontractors come in every day and work side by side.  Subcontractors may include:  plasterer, plumber, concrete/flat work, framer, roofer, sheet metal, masonry, painter, electrician, iron worker, and carpenter.
Subcontractors are scheduled to be on site by a Superintendent or a Project manager hired by the General Contractor.  The size of the project usually dictates the number of subcontractors needed.  It also makes a difference if the project is residential or commercial.  Because of the sheer number of subcontractors that generally work on the same project, construction site accidents are common.  One of the major causes of such accidents is scaffolding.
Sometimes, subcontractors occupy the same space or use one another’s scaffolding.  Sometimes, scaffolding is erected incorrectly, tied down improperly, is erected on uneven or loose ground, or is overloaded, causing it to collapse.  An improperly erected or fastened scaffolding could collapse or fall.
When erecting and using scaffolding, there are strict rules which should be followed.  A qualified person, as defined by Cal-OSHA, should study the load before the load is placed on the scaffolding.  Additionally, there are safety code requirements and scaffolding must be braced properly.  A properly designed and erected scaffolding should use regulation-sized planks and consist of levels which are easily accessible to employees.  A properly installed scaffold should contain fall protection, including proper bracing, guardrails and safety harnesses.
Aside from the subcontractor who erects the scaffolding, the general contractor may also be responsible for any injuries sustained in a scaffolding accident.  As part of his duties, the Superintendent should hold safety meetings and inspect the construction site including all scaffolding each day.
Apart from scaffolding, construction site accidents can occur in a myriad of other ways.  Holes are left uncovered, flat work is left unfinished, and debris is left on the project.  These are fall and tripping hazards.  When a construction accident occurs, resulting injury can be traumatic.  Injuries could include: head injuries, broken bones, neck and back injuries, torn menisci, and severed limbs.
Due to the severity of such injuries and intricacies between subcontractors, it is important for an injured party to seek advice from an experienced personal injury and construction site accident attorney.
For more information, please call The Mason Law Firm at 661-476-5678 or email mason@mrscvlaw.com.