Construction work is inherently dangerous, but that does not mean cannot prevent accidents – even on dangerous equipment like scaffolding.
Scaffolds serve an important purpose on any construction site, but they also present dangers to workers. Whether someone slips and falls off a scaffold or the scaffolding collapses, injuries can be life-threatening.
Tips to Stay Safe on Scaffolding
Here are some tips to help you stay safe while working on and around scaffolding.
- Always be aware of your surroundings
- Always wear a hardhat
- Always wear shoes with good traction
- Climb up and down scaffolding as designed
- Do not take shortcuts climbing up a scaffold
- Do not use scaffolding if it is raining or if the scaffolding is covered in snow or ice
- Never place objects on a scaffold where you or someone else could trip over them
- Speak up if you see something that could be a hazard
Scaffolding Training
Your employer should provide you with proper training on how to assemble and use scaffolding. This can be a major factor contributing to preventing a scaffolding accident.
Scaffolding is used for different purposes across different construction sites. Your employer needs to train you on the different uses and dangers posed by scaffolding used for the construction site where you work. If your employer fails to properly train you on scaffolding use and you get injured in an accident, they could be liable for your injuries.
Scaffolding Regulations
There are many government safety regulations surrounding construction sites and specifically scaffolding. These regulations are not meant to hinder your ability to do your job, but rather to allow you to do your job safely.
You should know these regulations, but your employer should also provide you details about how to be safe and abide by the regulations. Some larger scaffolding may need to be inspected before any can use it.
Workers’ Compensation
Even with the best intentions and with following all relevant advice, scaffolding accidents still happen. They collapse, workers trip and fall, and people working below get hit with falling objects. If that happens to you, you may be entitled to compensation under your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance policy.
Workers’ compensation is no-fault insurance, which means that, unless you intentionally injured yourself, you may be entitled to collect money for your lost income and medical expenses related to your accident. However, unlike a personal injury claim, you will not be able to collect any other compensation.
To file a workers’ compensation claim, you must alert your supervisor as soon as possible after your scaffolding accident. They will notify their insurance company, who will begin a review of your accident and claim. You will need to provide evidence of your injury very soon after you initially file your claim. A skilled lawyer can help you gather this information so you can focus on your recovery.
The Pottstown Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC, Help You Stay Safe at Work
Scaffolding accidents can cause serious, life-altering injuries. Even if you take all the necessary steps to prevent a scaffolding accident, injuries still occur. Speak with our knowledgeable Pottstown workers’ compensation lawyers at Wusinich, Sweeney & Ryan, LLC, today. Call 610-594-1600 or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation with our experienced team. Conveniently located in Exton, Pennsylvania, we proudly serve Downingtown, West Chester, Exton, Coatesville, Pheonixville, Malvern, Lyndell, Wagontown, Uwchland, Parkesburg, Chester Springs, Lancaster County, Reading, and Morgantown.