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Workplace Risks: Construction & Scaffolding

by cjohnson | Sep 11, 2020 | Injury Prevention, Workplace Risks

Edited By: Cecily Johnson, Legal Secretary

Many construction workers rely on scaffolding to support them while doing their daily work. However, that scaffolding can also be the source of significant risk. Data reported by the United States Department of Labor indicates that that the majority of scaffolding-related injuries result from three causes: collapse, falls, or falling objects.

Scaffolding Collapse

Defective or improperly set up scaffolds can pose a danger to workers both on the scaffolding and beneath it. If manufacturers provide defective scaffolding, the planks or supports can fail without warning. Improper assembly can place scaffolding on uneven or unstable ground or leave the structure without the support it needs. Any of these risks can lead to serious injury and in some cases death.

Falls From Scaffolding

Falls pose a significant risk to construction workers and account for more than one-third of fatal accidents according to data from the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA). Because of this, OSHA requirements fall protection measures if workers will be more than ten feet from the ground. However, employers must properly train their workers incorrect use of this equipment, and improper training can put workers at risk of serious harm.

Objects Falling From Scaffolding

While many scaffolding-related injuries involve workers on the scaffold itself, falling objects can put anyone below the scaffolding at serious risk. Hand tools, equipment, supplies and the scaffolding itself falling can lead to serious injury.

Have You Suffered From a Scaffolding-Related Work Injury?

Any scaffold-related accident on a construction site could lead to significant injuries like broken bones, spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries. The most serious accidents are fatal. If you have suffered from a scaffolding-related work injury, report the injury to your employer and seek medical attention. If you are struggling to get the compensation you deserve, a determined legal expert can be invaluable.