When loading materials onto the upper floors of a building, it may be vital to ensure that the weight of these materials does not exceed maximum limits. Placing too much weight on a surface may only increase the risks that the floor may collapse and the outcome of such a scenario could place the safety and lives of workers in New Jersey in jeopardy. Reports indicate that up to eight workers suffered injuries when a floor gave way and collapsed during a recent construction accident in a neighboring state.
Recent incident
According to reports, the incident took place on a recent Friday as construction crews were working to pour and spread concrete on the second floor of a building. An investigation into the incident indicated that concrete was pouring out onto the floor too rapidly for workers to spread it out and the weight of the pool caused the floor to collapse. Officials say that it collapsed through the first floor and into the basement of the building, trapping several workers in the rubble in the process.
Upon arriving at the scene, emergency responders worked to rescue up to six workers from the rubble, while two others were able to escape on their own. Reports indicate that all eight of these workers suffered injuries in the incident, two of whom are in critical condition. Accidents of this nature remain a prevalent concern in the construction industry and the fallout can have a devastating impact on the lives of those involved.
After a construction accident
While being involved in a construction accident can be stressful enough as is, handling the fallout of the incident could also prove a daunting process. Workers in New Jersey who suffer injuries in the process may face numerous challenges during the recovery process, physical and financial alike. While injuries may heal with treatment and time, those who have concerns about the financial ramifications could benefit from retaining the services of an attorney for advice in preparing to protect their financial futures via the workers’ compensation insurance system.