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A worker who has been injured on a construction site might find this hard to believe, but the responsibility for his safety on the job belongs solely to the contractors and developers. We say it’s probably hard to believe because when a construction worker is injured on the job, the contractors and developers often go to great legal lengths to try to deny any responsibility at all.
The attorneys at Brunnock and Fleming are often called upon to hold developers and contractors accountable when their failings or willingness to cut corners causes a worker to suffer an injury. As longtime residents of New Jersey, we know that a significant percentage of the population make their living on cranes, walkways, tunnels and docks. We also know the dangers that come part and parcel with the job, and understand the necessity for strict adherence to OSHA regulations.
While we find fighting for the rights of injured workers to be extremely gratifying, we are also often left saddened by the fact that so many workers seem to suffer the same types of injuries over and over again. While no OSHA violation is “minor,” the violations listed below happen with enough frequency that we are left with the impression that many contractors seem to have lost a few pages of the OSHA regulations manual.
Aerial Lift Accidents: Aerial lifts include platforms, articulating boom platforms, and vertical towers. Employers are responsible for ensuring that employees are trained and authorized to operate aerial lifts. This training includes the knowledge of setting brakes and using outriggers, the limits on boom and basket loads, the wearing of fall protection gear, and avoiding the use of ladders or stools to raise the employee above the platform’s height.
Defects in Tools and Equipment: Many tools used in construction are used to grind, shape or alter steel, concrete and other hardened substances. To prevent injury, floor and bench-mounted grinders must be properly secured according to precise specifications. While that might not be easy, it absolutely must be done. Malfunctions to these tools can lead to dangerous projectiles that can injure eyes, hands, the face and other body parts. In addition, adequate safety gear must be provided and worn by all construction workers using grinders.
Safety in Confined Spaces: Construction workers are often required to work in confined spaces, such as storage tanks, process vessels, bins, boilers, ventilation or exhaust ducts, sewers, underground utility vaults, tunnels, pipelines, pits, tubs, vaults, and vessels. Before any construction worker enters a confined space, the employer is required to brief the construction worker on any real or potential hazards they may encounter, such as toxic fumes, explosive pipes or utilities. All required safety equipment must be provided by the employer.
If you or a loved one has been injured on a construction site, it is extremely important for you to confer with an experienced attorney. At Brunnock and Fleming, we have the experience necessary to determine whether or not your injury was caused by negligence on the part of the contractor, developer, or any other responsible party.
Contact our offices for a free legal consultation today.
Brunnock & Fleming, P.C.
1776 On The Green
67 Park Place
5th Floor
Morristown, NJ 07960
Phone: (973) 898-3700
Fax: (973) 898-6766
Toll Free: (800) 378-6206