An Upstate New York developer was recently indicted on charges of improperly removing asbestos, putting workers at risk for a potential New York construction accident, NBC News is reporting.
When people think of construction accidents in New York City, they often think of scaffolding problems, major machinery or equipment that is used improperly or other common problems. However, there are other areas in which the work of contractors can put workers as well as the public in danger.
New York construction accident lawyers understand that many historic buildings in the city were made with asbestos. It is a natural mineral that was used for the better part of the 21st Century to provide insulation and protection from fire.
After decades of using it in buildings, common housewares and car parts, researchers discovered it was harmful to people who ingest it. Asbestos exposure has been linked to a cancer called mesothelioma.
If construction workers who aren't trained to deal with the material start breaking it up and allowing it to get into the air during a renovation project, it can not only be harmful, but also criminal.
A 28-year-old Avon, New York developer now faces two counts of violating the Clean Air Act after allegedly having workers remove asbestos from a downtown warehouse. After a tip, an inspector went to the site and found large bundles of dried asbestos sitting near a dumpster where employees were working.
The investigator confirmed through testing that it was asbestos and cited the developer for not hiring an asbestos removal expert, per the law. The state believes anyone who was near the property from August to December could have been exposed to the asbestos.
While construction injuries are typically thought of as broken bones, cuts and injuries sustained in falls or from large machinery, internal injuries based on exposure to dangerous chemicals is also a common problem.
Contractors must conduct proper training and not put workers or members of the public in a position of being exposed to chemicals and materials that may be helpful in constructing buildings, but which could be harmful. These kinds of injuries can lead to a life-long struggle that could easily be avoided if laws and proper procedures are upheld.
The Manhattan injury lawyers at Antin, Ehrlich & Epstein can be reached toll free at 888-563-4213.
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