Working at height creates extra risk

Construction is a messy business. Working with raw materials in the real world often requires modifications on the fly, resulting in quickly changing conditions. On an inefficient job site, this can result in debris and tools everywhere. Debris on scaffolding creates a tripping hazard, while putting a hammer down for just a moment can result in a dangerous drop towards workers below.

The Occupational Safety & Health Administration lays out comprehensive guidelines for the proper and safe use of scaffolding. The requirements are so dense that employers are recommended to have someone familiar with the guidelines inspect the equipment before each shift. In reality, full inspections of vital safety equipment happen far less often.

Employers are responsible for maintaining safe working conditions

When your employer fails to adequately maintain safety equipment, you are at risk. Whether the equipment in question involves complicated scaffold rigs or something as simple as a bent ladder, an employer’s negligence can have lifelong consequences for employees.

Falls from height are significantly more dangerous than falls at ground level. The greater the height, the more severe the potential injuries. Falls from scaffolding and ladders can include, but are not limited to:

• Head and neck injuries
• Back and spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injury
• Broken bones and nerve damage

If you have suffered an injury involving ladders or scaffolding on the job, you are entitled to compensation for your injuries and lost wages. However, these types of injuries can include dense legal complexities. Safety regulation compliance, engineering, party liability and indemnity can all play a role. The experienced Philadelphia workers’ compensation attorneys at Larry Pitt & Associates can evaluate your case and help get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation. We serve clients throughout Berks, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties.