New York Legal issues Blog

Construction workers in New York might find comfort in knowing that statistics show they are safer on the job than those outside of the five boroughs. The New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health recently released a study named "Deadly Skyline," in which concern is expressed about the increase in fatal construction workers' accidents across the state. However, fatality rates within the boroughs of New York show a significant decline over the most recent five-year period.

According to the dossier, the lower percentage of construction-related deaths occurred during years in which there was an explosion of growth in city construction projects. The study shows that there is no correlation between the boom in building and the number of work-related fatalities. According to NYCOSH, the city aggressively prosecutes contractors who commit wage, labor and safety violations, and it attributes the reduction in construction accidents to the harsh penalties issued to those who risk the lives of workers by cutting corners.

Every year, thousands of preventable incidents cause severe or even fatal injuries to New York workers. A significant percentage of these are construction workers' accidents involving falls from rooftops. Sadly, many employers in the construction industry prioritize profit over employee safety.

Proper planning is required before any roof work is done. Falls are the primary hazards for rooftop workers, and include falls over roof edges, from ladders, through skylights or hatchways. After assessing the roof for potential dangers, steps must be taken to mitigate risks. Guardrails and self-closing gates must prevent falls through roof openings, and another guardrail system on the roof's edge can provide further protection.

Until recently, diagnosing a concussion has been a complex— and subjective— process. However, this process might be changing with the invention of the EyeBox.

After years of clinical trials, the FDA recently approved a concussion-detecting device. The device is known as the EyeBox.

Among the many tall buildings in New York City, the wind in January can feel stronger and colder than anywhere else. Although construction activities are limited in the dead of winter, workers face increased risks in any outdoor jobs they do at this time. Construction workers' accidents can occur if special precautions are not in place.

Slip-and-fall incidents cause construction worker injuries throughout the year, but the risks are exacerbated when snow and ice create slippery surfaces. Ice can form on any cold surface, and ladders, scaffolding, work platforms, stairs and walkways all become more dangerous than usual when ice accumulates. Slips from elevated areas can result in traumatic brain injuries and fractured bones, and it could even lead to death.