Boston Injury Attorney Blog
A scaffolding incident happens more often than you think in the construction industry. While you must avoid it at all costs, there’s no escaping the necessity of scaffolds in building any infrastructure.
If you are an owner of a construction business, it is important to familiarize yourself with scaffolding accidents as much as you can. Keep on reading to learn the essential information to protect you, your employees, and your company.
Common Causes behind Scaffolding Accidents
There are four most common reasons for scaffolding incidents. Here are some brief details about each of them:
Electric shock is one of the most common causes of scaffolding accidents. Make sure that electrical cords do not come into contact with metal surfaces to avoid electric shock. Workers must also wear a conductive tool belt to discharge the electric current properly instead of harming themselves.
2. Falling Objects
With various levels and materials moving around, there’s always a risk of falling objects on construction sites. Construction managers must ensure to secure them correctly and that workers are always aware of their surroundings, especially if there are dangerous things within the area.
3. Catch Between Materials
The catch between materials like wood and metal is another deadly cause of scaffolding accidents. The scaffold must have proper guards to avoid unwanted incidents, mainly when workers repair damaged parts.
The number one cause of scaffolding accidents is falling. It is always best to have workers with high-quality safety equipment, such as harnesses, lifelines, and other safety devices, to reduce the risk of falls.
Typical Injuries from Scaffolding Accidents
Scaffolding accidents commonly cause several injuries. They include the following:
1. Fractures
Fractures are the most common injuries from scaffolding accidents. Ensure that the OSHA-compliant scaffolding has guardrails, safety nets, and other safety measures to reduce fractures greatly.
Scaffold accidents can cause head trauma and other brain injuries. A brain injury can result in a permanent disability and even death. Wear a hard hat and other protective gear to prevent a head injury.
3. Broken Bones
Broken bones are the usual result of falling from a height. Therefore, the best way to avoid them is by ensuring that workers are wearing high-quality safety equipment at all times.
4. Cuts and Lacerations
Scaffolding injuries can come from getting a cut or laceration. Always make sure to cover scaffolding correctly, and workers are wearing hard hats and gloves to protect themselves and avoid harm.
How to Mitigate Liability from Scaffolding Accidents
It is crucial to reduce as much liability as possible in any construction business. This will protect you from potential lawsuits and lower the cost of insurance. Some of the things you can do are:
- Replacing old or broken tools and equipment
- Strictly following OSHA regulations
- Hold OSHA training and refreshers
- Having routine inspection to catch wear and tear
Contact An Attorney
Scaffolding accidents can happen on any construction site. That’s why it is always best to learn how to avoid scaffolding accidents before it happens to you. Should you encounter accidents, you must have Boston construction accident lawyers you can call.
Here at Bellotti Law Group, P.C., you can have legal experts guide you in making the right moves. We can connect you with a Massachusetts construction accident lawyer and help you receive the best possible outcome in the best way possible. Call us today at 617-225-2100 for a free consultation!