Construction Workers Need to Be Mindful of Scaffolding Dangers NJ

Statistics from the U.S. Department of Labor show that nearly 2.3 million construction workers are injured each year in scaffolding accidents. Usually, these types of accidents are caused by unsafe working environments. If you have been injured in a scaffolding accident, you need to file a worker’s compensation claim to get compensated for the damages you have incurred. If you fail to file a claim right away, you may find it increasingly harder to get the money you are owed. Read below to find out more about these types of accidents.

What are OSHA’s Recommendations Regarding Scaffolding?

If you are in the construction industry, then you know all too well about OSHA and the fines they can levy on construction business owners who fail to follow their guidelines. OSHA has very detailed instructions regarding the use of scaffolding on job sites like:

The scaffolding used on a construction site must be able to hold at least four times their suggested maximum load without collapsing. The suspension ropes used on the scaffolding will need to hold six times their maximum weight.
Scaffolding must meet the OSHA requirements for rated capacity, the way it is constructed, and the intended use.
The users of the scaffolding must be trained on the dangers they hold.
Before every shift, scaffolding needs to be inspected before each use.
Belts, harnesses, and drop lines are to be used by workers on the scaffolding at all times.
Any equipment on the scaffolding that is damaged must be removed and replaced immediately.

If a construction business owner fails to comply with these guidelines, they will be fined by OSHA. Also, letting employees work on damaged scaffolding makes the business owner responsible for any and all injuries sustained as a result.

Common Scaffolding Related Injuries

For most people in the construction business, finding out about common injuries related to scaffolding mishaps is important. By finding out what injuries are common, a person can exercise more precautions to avoid these accidents. Here are some of the most common scaffolding-related injuries.

Broken Bones- The force that results from a scaffolding fall has been known to shatter bones on impact.
Amputated Limbs- Things like broken blanks and sheered metal on a piece of scaffolding can damage your extremities. If left untreated, these wounds can become infected and may lead to amputation.
Being Impaled- If the scaffolding has broken rods or wood, they can be extremely dangerous. These sharp pieces of material have been known to impale people who fall on them.
Traumatic Brain Injury- When a person hits their head on the ground after a fall from scaffolding, a TBI can result.
Spinal Injuries- Falling from scaffolding and landing on your back can cause things like swelling, bleeding and even paralysis.

When injured in a scaffolding fall, you will need to seek out the help of a legal professional to find out what your rights are.

If you have been injured in a construction accident, be sure to contact Rosner Law Offices, P.C. at (856) 502-1655 for help.