New York City is known for its iconic skyline, but the construction work that keeps the city growing also comes with significant risks. Construction sites in NYC are some of the busiest and most hazardous places to work. Understanding the top risks and how to stay safe can help prevent accidents and protect workers on the job. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, our team of NY construction accident lawyers are dedicated to advocating for construction workers’ rights and ensuring their safety. Here are the top five construction accident risks in New York City and tips on how to stay safe.
1. Falls from Heights
The Risk
Falls are the leading cause of construction-related fatalities in New York City. With so many high-rise buildings under construction, workers often find themselves working at significant heights. Whether from scaffolding, ladders, or rooftops, falls can lead to severe injuries or death.
How to Stay Safe
- Use Proper Fall Protection: Always wear a safety harness and ensure it is properly secured to an anchor point.
- Inspect Equipment: Regularly inspect scaffolding, ladders, and other equipment to ensure they are in good condition.
- Follow Safety Protocols: Adhere to all site-specific safety guidelines, including the use of guardrails and safety nets.
2. Struck-By Accidents
The Risk
Struck-by accidents occur when a worker is hit by a moving object, such as a vehicle, falling tools, or construction materials. In the fast-paced environment of NYC construction sites, the risk of being struck by something is high.
How to Stay Safe
- Wear High-Visibility Clothing: Make sure you are easily seen by equipment operators and other workers.
- Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Always be alert to the movement of vehicles, machinery, and overhead work.
- Secure Tools and Materials: Ensure that tools and materials are properly secured to prevent them from falling or being dislodged.
3. Electrocutions
The Risk
With so much electrical work required in construction, the risk of electrocution is a significant concern. Workers can be exposed to live wires, faulty equipment, or inadequate grounding, leading to serious injuries.
How to Stay Safe
- Ensure Proper Grounding: Make sure all electrical systems are properly grounded and that ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are used where necessary.
- Use Insulated Tools: Always use tools with proper insulation to protect against electric shock.
- Follow Lockout/Tagout Procedures: Before performing maintenance on electrical systems, ensure that all power sources are de-energized and locked out.
4. Caught-In/Between Accidents
The Risk
Caught-in/between accidents occur when a worker is caught, crushed, or trapped between two or more objects. This can happen during excavation, when working near heavy machinery, or when materials shift unexpectedly.
How to Stay Safe
- Avoid Hazardous Areas: Stay clear of areas where heavy equipment is operating or where there is a risk of cave-ins.
- Use Protective Systems: When working in trenches or excavations, ensure that protective systems like trench boxes or shoring are in place.
- Communicate Clearly: Maintain clear communication with equipment operators and other workers to avoid accidents.
5. Exposure to Hazardous Materials
The Risk
Construction workers in New York City often encounter hazardous materials such as asbestos, lead, silica dust, and chemicals. Prolonged exposure to these substances can lead to serious health issues, including respiratory problems, cancer, and skin conditions.
How to Stay Safe
- Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear the appropriate PPE, such as masks, gloves, and protective clothing, when handling or working near hazardous materials.
- Follow Safety Data Sheets (SDS): Be familiar with the safety data sheets for any hazardous materials on site and follow recommended safety practices.
- Use Proper Ventilation: Ensure that work areas are properly ventilated to reduce the concentration of harmful fumes and dust.
Conclusion
Construction work in New York City is essential but dangerous. By understanding the top risks and taking the necessary precautions, workers can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents and injuries. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we are committed to protecting the rights and safety of construction workers. If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, contact us today to learn how we can help you secure the compensation and support you deserve. Your safety is our priority.
