What Injured Workers
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Construction Accident Law in New York
Construction Injuries
- Amputation
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- Herniated Disc
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Fall through Scaffolding: Fatal Fact #27
Construction Company Type: Masonry Contractor
Accident Description:
A crew laying bricks on the upper floor of a three-story building built a six-foot platform spanning a gap between two scaffolds. The platform was correctly constructed of two 2" × 12" planks with standard guardrails; however, one of the planks was not scaffold grade lumber and also had extensive dry rot in the center. When a bricklayer stepped on the plank it disintegrated and he fell 30 feet to his death.
OSHA Recommendations:
- Have a "competent" person regularly and frequently inspect the jobsite, including materials and equipment, to assure compliance with OSHA standards (29 CFR 1926.20(b)(2)).
- Use only scaffold grade or equivalent wood for planking on scaffolds (29 CFR 1926.451(a)(10)).
Inspection Results
As a result of its investigation, OSHA issued a citation alleging two serious violations of its standards. Had OSHA construction safety standards been followed, this fatality might have been prevented.
Sources of Help
- Construction Safety and Health Standards (OSHA 2207) which contains all OSHA job safety and health rules and regulations (1926 and 1910) covering construction.
- "Occupational Fatalities Related to Scaffolds as Found in Reports of OSHA Fatality/Catastrophe Investigations, " available from the National Technical Information Service, 5285 Port Royal Rd., Springfield, Va. 22161. (703) 487-4650, publication no. PB 80-182- 009, $11.50, pre-paid.
- OSHA-funded free consultation services. Consult your telephone directory for the number of your local OSHA area office for further assistance and advice (listed under U.S. Labor Department or under the state government section where states administer their own OSHA programs).
Accident Details: Fall through Scaffolding |
|
| Company Type: | Masonry Contractor |
| Crew Size: | 8 |
| Union/Collective Bargaining? | Yes |
| Weather: | Clear |
| Worksite Inspection? | No |
| Designated Competent Person on Site? | No |
| Employer Safety and Health Program? | Yes |
| Training and Education for Employees? | Yes |
| Craft of Deceased Worker(s): | Bricklayer |
| Age / Sex of Deceased Worker(s): | 52; male |
| Experience or Time on Job: | 25 years |
| Time on Project: | 4 weeks |
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