Since construction work is such a major industry in New York City, many people are involved in it in one way or another. The construction industry is one of the riskiest for worker injuries and death. The combination of the number of construction projects ongoing in New York and its potential for accidents places workers in jeopardy. To ensure worksites are safe, the Department of Buildings (DOB) is tasked with trying to forge solutions. Recently, it released its latest report about safety. It showed both good and bad results.
Construction incidents were fewer, but injuries and deaths rose
In its report, the DOB noted that there was a 10% reduction in construction incidents from 2020 to 2021 with more than 700. This number was 40% lower than the figures for three years earlier.
There were 505 injuries in 2021 and 502 in 2020. There were 9 fatalities and 8 in 2020. It should also be noted that construction projects were stagnated or stopped entirely in 2020. This too should factor in when gauging the numbers and formulating solutions.
To make construction sites safer, the DOB implemented a “zero tolerance” policy to make sure worker safety was not compromised. Early in the year, there was a spike in workers falling on sites. The DOB conducted a probe and issued nearly 1,500 stop-work orders so the problem could be addressed. Falls are a known hazard for workers since they are significant heights as a part of doing their jobs. Of the 9 deaths, 7 were due to falls. Manhattan had the most incidents at 395.
Experienced help for the injured and their families
These are positive steps in the interest of worker safety. Of course, those who work in this industry are aware of the possibility of a construction accident. It is an arduous job in which people place inordinate trust in their employers and colleagues that a safe environment will be maintained. Still, even with all this oversight, accidents can happen.
People will have major medical expenses, lost income and long-term challenges. That is what workers’ compensation is for. Even with that, there could be other costs that are not covered and more compensation might be needed. Understanding what to do in the aftermath of a construction accident requires experienced assistance. Consulting with those who understand the ins and outs of a claim is essential.