New York has specific scaffolding liability laws

Whether you have been a New York City local your entire life, or are just visiting, it is impossible to not be awed by the city’s buildings, whether apartment buildings or iconic skyscrapers, like the Empire State Building. But, the appeal of big city life comes with a cost for some construction workers. Thankfully, New York law has a specific labor law to protect workers who deal with scaffolding, Labor Law 240.

Section 240: The scaffolding law

New York law broadly states that for most building types, whether during construction, maintenance or destruction of the property, equipment, like ladders, scaffolding or pulleys, must operate with protection for the safety of workers on the equipment.

This law gives workers protections, if they become victims of workplace accidents, which can be severe when dealing with great heights.

The law has specific requirements for scaffolding higher than 20 feet. For many buildings, this includes safety rails and proper fastening. The law puts responsibility on the contractors or owners of the construction site to provide safe working conditions on scaffolding. All scaffolding is also required to hold four times the weight of all occupants and equipment, when used. It is important that your employer holds up to their end of maintaining your safety.

If you were injured on construction scaffolding, you have options

If you are a construction worker who gets up in the morning to keep our city thriving, you do not have to deal with scaffolding injuries alone. If your accident was caused by an owner’s or another party’s negligence, you could be entitled to damages.

A New York attorney can discuss your unique circumstances, including the discussion of liability and damages. Falling from great heights can have significant impacts on your health and future. An attorney who is an advocate for injury victims can be an asset, if you are dealing with any construction injuries.