Heavy machinery and equipment are often required for arduous jobs involving urban development, earthwork, highway construction and building projects.
In a concrete jungle like New York City, these tools can be essential for getting the work done quickly and efficiently. However, they also frequently contribute to major construction accidents in Manhattan.
Workers need to be trained on the proper methods of use, as well as pitfalls to avoid. Construction workers have to be on alert for the potential dangers that could result in a debilitating injury or worse.
Every construction worker deserves to return home safely.
Our Manhattan construction accident attorneys know that for years, the U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration has been tracking statistics on the calamities most likely to befall construction workers. If you operate a construction site, you should take note of these as well.
Everyone makes mistakes sometimes, but in construction work, one slip-up could easily result in a fatality. The proper protections and controls can make a huge difference in preventing these occurrences.
In Canada, the Infrastructure Health & Safety Association (akin to OSHA in the U.S.), outlined the top heavy equipment hazards in the construction industry, which ring true on both sides of the border.
1. Electrocution. This is especially an issue if the machinery comes in contact with power lines overhead.
2. Being crushed. This is a risk if the equipment overturns.
3. Getting struck by the material being moved, such as iron pipes, rocks or cement. If the equipment isn't properly operated by a subcontractor, everyone is at risk.
4. Being pinned between a wall or other object and the equipment. Again, this could be an issue with operator error.
5. Being run over by the heavy equipment.
The risk may seem daunting for any worker, but much of it can be mitigated by putting certain safety practices in place.
1. If it's at all possible, plan an area where vehicles can drive straight through, so there won't be any need for the operator of heavy machinery to back up.
2. Make sure if you're a driver or operator that you wear your seat belt.
3. Know your blind spots so that you can be especially aware to check them before you start trying to maneuver forklifts and cranes.
4. Recognize when it might become necessary to use a signaler, and ensure that person knows the standard hand signals.
5. Wear brightly-colored clothing or vests that make you highly visible.
Finally, it's crucial for both employers and workers to be aware of some of some of the types of heavy equipment that often contributes to construction injuries and deaths.
This include:
1. Scaffolding. This common construction equipment creates an enormous fall hazard, especially if it's not properly put together. Many people think of heavy construction equipment safety as simply an issue for those who operate motorized vehicles. It's important to take note that non-moving equipment can be just as deadly.
2. Electrical equipment, which can not only shock you, but potentially cause fires and explosions. Following safety standards every time, without exception, can decrease the risks.
3. Trenching and excavation equipment. When it's not used properly or at all, workers are at risk for cave-ins, collapsing walls, electrocutions and even drowning.
The Manhattan injury lawyers at Antin, Ehrlich & Epstein can be reached toll-free at 888-563-4213.
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