New York – Fast-paced building and renovation work in the city with a disproportionate increase in construction injuries and deaths has been noted recently. Worker safety experts explain that there has been a notable increase in the amount of construction but they fear that safety has fallen by the wayside. This can create a hazardous condition for workers as well as innocent passersby. Inspectors point to the fact that they have recorded many more construction deaths as well as worker injuries on construction sites. However, the statistics show that the accidents and injuries are not proportionate with the increased work volume. In addition, they note that many of the injured workers are undocumented laborers without proper worker’s comp insurance coverage by the employers. It has been suggested that this may point toward bosses pushing their employees to work too fast and not spend time and money on safety precautions. Regulations mandate employers to provide a safe work environment to ensure employee protection and to mitigate on-the-job dangers. Not doing so can make indicate a negligent employer with respect to the injury of a worker or bystander, and therefore liable for bodily injuries and wrongful death.

For an example of recent construction site disasters, see this article about a collapsed ceiling that hurt two workmen. You can also refer to this article about the rise in work injuries in New York building zones.

Illustrative Photo Credit: John Hoey [License]