Construction Accident Lawyers Queens, NY
Construction Accident Lawyers Queens, NYConstruction workers are at great risk for sustaining serious injuries while on the job, more so than in many other industries. Depending on the nature of your job, your eyes may be vulnerable to debilitating injuries that in the worst case scenarios could cost your eyesight and a lifetime of pain. Fortunately, many eye injuries are preventable with the use of proper eye protection. Construction accident lawyers in Queens, NY from Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen, P.C., can help a worker receive the benefits and compensation they deserve for injuries sustained on the job, but preventing the injury in the first place is obviously preferable. Below are some tips and guidance about how the wearing of proper eye protection on the job can prevent serious injuries.
Looking at the Numbers
The statistics prove that eye injuries are common among workers, particularly those in the industrial sectors. However, the US Department of Labor reports that about 1,000 eye injuries occur across all workforce members. Nearly every job is susceptible to at least one of various forms of eye injuries. Among the workers who suffer eye injuries, about 40 percent work in the construction industry. Of that 40 percent, three out of five were not wearing eye protection at the time of the accident. If they had worn it, their injuries may have been less serious or avoided altogether. Experienced construction accident lawyers in Queens, NY have represented many clients who experienced these scenarios firsthand.
The Common Causes of Workplace Eye Injuries
The crux of most eye injuries is foreign matter that cuts the eye. Whether it’s an object, metal or wood slivers, dust, or sparks, it takes very little to profoundly damage an eye. A single, almost microscopic piece of matter can permanently damage a worker’s eyesight which underscores the importance of wearing proper eye protection. Construction accident lawyers in Queens, NY note that additional causes of workplace eye injuries include:
- Chemical burns.
- Welding burns.
- Nails or staples.
The Effectiveness of Safety Goggles
Safety goggles shield a worker from various sizes and types of debris that would otherwise impact their eyes. Goggles that approved for use by workers incorporates a hard and heavy duty plastic that is clear and still allows the user to see through them. Some types of safety goggles also protect the user from sparks, high temperatures, and chemicals. Certain workers such as welders require even more specialized goggles that can shield their eyes from the extreme brightness of a welding torch and the accompanying sparks. Goggles of this sort are usually built into a special helmet that helps protect the rest of their head. Welding goggles are so protective in fact, that they can effectively shield the eyes when the wearer looks directly at the sun.
Workplace Compensation Benefits
When a worker sustains an eye injury while on the job, under most circumstances they should qualify for workers compensation benefits to pay for medical treatment and a portion of the wages they are unable to earn while recovering. Whether or not you were wearing eye protection when you were injured on the job, if you were refused benefits, contact construction accident lawyers Queens, NY trusts from Polsky, Shouldice, & Rosen, P.C. to discover your legal options.
Top 10 Safety Violations In The Construction Industry
To mitigate accidents on construction sites, which pose inherent risk, it’s critical to understand the top safety violations in the construction industry. For those in the construction field, it’s crucial to recognize these common hazards to maintain a safer work environment. As Queens, NY construction accident lawyers, we see firsthand the consequences of these safety breaches. Here, we outline the primary violations that often lead to serious injuries on construction sites.
1. Fall Protection
Falls are the leading cause of fatalities in construction. Proper fall protection is essential, yet it’s frequently overlooked. Workers need adequate guardrails, safety nets, and personal fall arrest systems to prevent accidents. Ensuring that all fall protection equipment is in good condition and used correctly can save lives.
2. Scaffolding Issues
Improper use or construction of scaffolding is a common violation. Scaffolds must be erected and dismantled under the supervision of a competent person and must support their weight plus four times the maximum intended load. Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to ensure safety.
3. Ladders
Ladders are a standard tool on construction sites, but improper use can lead to severe injuries. Violations include using the wrong type of ladder, placing ladders on unstable surfaces, and not securing them properly. Workers should always choose the right ladder for the job and follow safety guidelines.
4. Electrical Hazards
Exposure to live wires and improper handling of electrical equipment pose significant risks. Common violations include lack of ground-fault protection, using damaged cords, and not following lockout/tagout procedures. Regular training on electrical safety and proper equipment maintenance is vital.
5. Head Protection
Our Queens construction accident lawyers will share that head injuries can be fatal, yet some workers neglect to wear hard hats. Employers must enforce the use of head protection in areas where there is a potential for injury from falling objects, electrical shocks, or other hazards. Regular reminders and strict policies can improve compliance.
6. Hazard Communication
Often, proper labeling and communication about hazardous materials are neglected. Employers must maintain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for all chemicals and ensure workers are trained to handle them safely. Clear labeling and effective communication can prevent many accidents.
7. Machinery Guarding
Unguarded machinery poses a serious risk of injury. Common violations include missing or improperly installed guards on power tools and heavy machinery. Regular inspections and immediate repairs of guarding equipment are necessary to protect workers.
8. Respiratory Protection
Dust, fumes, and other airborne contaminants require proper respiratory protection. Violations occur when employers fail to provide the necessary equipment or ensure it fits correctly. A comprehensive respiratory protection program can safeguard workers’ health.
9. Eye And Face Protection
Many construction tasks pose risks to the eyes and face. Failure to provide appropriate protective gear, such as safety glasses or face shields, leads to numerous injuries. Employers should enforce the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and offer regular training on its importance.
10. Training And Certification
Lack of proper training is a significant issue. Workers need adequate training on equipment use, safety procedures, and emergency response. Ongoing education and certification can help maintain a knowledgeable and safe workforce.
Protecting Construction Workers
It is vital to protect workers by addressing safety violations in the construction industry to protect workers. As Queens construction accident lawyers, we stress the importance of adherence to safety regulations to prevent accidents and injuries.
At Polsky, Shouldice & Rosen, P.C., we have served New York and Long Island for more that 30 years, and we are committed to advocating for construction accident victims. If you or a loved one has been injured due to a safety violation, contact us today for a consultation, we offer 24/7 live phone answering. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate your legal options and pursue the compensation you deserve. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities.
