Working on a construction site exposes people to a host of potential threats to their safety. And while there are numerous safety measures people can take to prevent injuries in work zones, accidents can and do happen.
In some cases, the accidents stem from temporary equipment that is necessary to a job. However, while the equipment may be temporary, it can leave construction workers with permanent, catastrophic injuries.
Types of temporary equipment
Generally, temporary equipment and structures are in place to allow workers to complete various elements of a massive project. They can also provide necessary resources for workers and access to different parts of the site. More specifically, this equipment can include:
- Scaffolding
- Construction elevators
- Electrical installations and power
- Tunnels
- Tents
How accidents can happen
While these structures and materials are designed for temporary use, they should still be safe and constructed properly. They should be sound and include proper protection from accidents like falls. There should be adequate warnings for passersby, and constructed in accordance to regulations. If severe weather or other dangerous conditions arise, the structures should be secured and workers may need to stay off them.
When people do not take these precautions, accidents can happen.
For instance, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating an accident in another state involving temporary structure failure. According to reports, a construction elevator partially collapsed, falling on a woman walking by on the sidewalk. Two workers were on the scaffolding at the time and got trapped.
An investigation should reveal what happened and what went wrong.
Taking action after similar incidents
These types of accidents can happen on any job site. If they do, injured parties should know that there may be compensation available. For workers, this could mean workers’ compensation as well as a personal injury claim if a third party was negligent.
Whether injuries are temporary or permanent, they can disrupt a person’s life and be quite painful. Seeking financial relief and legal remedies can make it easier for injured parties and their family to recover.