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Construction Accident Law in New York
Construction Injuries
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Fall from Elevation: Fatal Fact #47
Construction Company Type: Construction/Demolition
Accident Description:
Three employees, under their supervisor's guidance, were demolishing a vehicular bridge 23 feet above a railroad track. The railroad was anxious to have the job completed as quickly as possible because soil erosion and disintegration of structural members had caused the bridge to shift. At the time of the accident the central flooring had been removed and two workers were on the remaining wooden walkway when they felt the bridge move. The supervisor noticed the movement also and called to both men to get off the bridge. One worker ran to safety, but the other froze and fell with the bridge when it collapsed. He died 11 days later. No engineering survey was undertaken to determine safe methods for demolition [29 CFR 1926.850(a)].
OSHA Recommendations:
- An engineering survey of structures determine their condition and the possibility of unplanned collapse to before permitting employees to start demolition operation should be obtained and a written record of the survey should be maintained [29 CFR 1926.850(a)].
Inspection Results
Following its inspection OSHA cited the employer for one serious violation for failing to conduct an engineering survey of the structure before permitting employees to begin work.
Sources of Help
- OSHA General Industry Standards [CFR parts 1900-1910] and OSHA Construction Standards [CFR Part 1926] which together include all OSHA job safety and health rules and regulations covering construction. l OSHA-funded free consultation services listed in telephone directories under U.S. Labor Department or under the state government section where states administer their own OSHA programs.
- OSHA Safety and Health Training Guidelines for 'Construction (Available from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Road, Springfield, VA 22161;-7031487-46Wl Order No. PB-239-312/AS): a set of 15 guidelines to help construction employers establish a training program in the safe use of equipment, tools, and machinery on the job.
- Courses in construction safety are offered by the OSHA Training Institute, 1555 Times Drive, Des Plaines, IL 60018, 312/297-4810.
Accident Details: Fall from Elevation |
|
| Company Type: | Construction/Demolition |
| Crew Size: | 3 |
| Union/Collective Bargaining? | Yes |
| Weather: | Clear |
| Worksite Inspection? | No |
| Designated Competent Person on Site? | No |
| Employer Safety and Health Program? | No |
| Training and Education for Employees? | No |
| Craft of Deceased Worker(s): | Laborer |
| Age / Sex of Deceased Worker(s): | 47; male |
| Experience or Time on Job: | 10 Years |
| Time on Project: | 45 Minutes |
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