Scaffolding is one of the most commonly used apparatuses for working at heights above two stories. However, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) reports that it’s one of the main contributors to the most common types of construction job accidents, struck by falling objects and falling from heights.
These accidents are often preventable. Understanding which factors cause most accidents on scaffolds can help foremen, contractors, and construction workers more easily recognize hazardous conditions.
If you have been injured in a construction site accident, consult a Houston scaffolding accident attorney. Texas employers aren’t required by law to carry workers’ compensation insurance, so you have more legal options than you think.
Scaffolding accident risk factor #1: Falling from heights
Falling from heights is the most common type of scaffolding accident. It’s usually because of a lack of safety equipment, like guardrails or a harness for the workers.
Or, if the scaffolding or safety equipment has been improperly installed, replaced, or maintained, it becomes fundamentally unstable, and there is a higher risk of someone falling from it.
Slippery surfaces are also a danger on scaffolding. If you are working in inclement weather, you may need additional safety equipment. If the work involves using liquids, like washing windows or painting, then you need to take extra steps to prevent dangerous spills.
Scaffolding accident risk factor #2: Poor construction practices
Damaged materials, lack of adequate bracing, or failure to secure the components of the scaffold can make it fundamentally unsteady and, therefore, unsafe. Scaffold failure can cause someone to fall or increase the risk of objects falling from the scaffold and hitting someone below.
Training plays a role here, such as training workers on the proper placement of scaffolding.
Scaffolding accident risk factor #3: Overloading the scaffold
Scaffolds are only rated for so much weight. Some are sturdier than others, but there is a limit to the safely permitted combination of a worker’s body weight and the tools and equipment they’re using.
Your site foreman or contractor supervisor should know the weight rating of each scaffold. If they don’t know, that could be considered negligence on their part. If you have doubts about the weight restrictions for a scaffold, it’s best to err on the side of caution and not overload the structure.
Scaffolding accident risk #4: Inadequate worker training
Anyone using a scaffold should be properly trained and inspect it for dangerous defects. This includes understanding where the bracings should be located, what a damaged scaffold looks like, and how to properly erect the scaffold for safety.
If your workers understand scaffolding safety and operation fundamentals, they’re less likely to be involved in an accident.
Scaffolding accident risk #5: Defective equipment
Defective equipment like the planks, connectors, or bracings, can render the scaffold less stable or increase the risk that someone could trip over part of it and either fall or cause something to fall off the scaffolding. Before assembling the scaffold, inspect each piece for signs of wear or damage.
Construction site owners are responsible for keeping any equipment, including scaffolds, in good repair so it is safe for use. If your employer or contractor fails to do so and still requires you to use defective equipment, they can be liable for any accident or injury that happens.
Scaffolding accident risk #6: Falling objects
People aren’t the only things that fall from scaffolds. Falling objects can pose a serious risk to people below, especially those who aren’t wearing hard hats.
If you are on a construction site with scaffolding, even if you’re not an employee, you are in a struck-by risk zone and should wear the proper personal protective equipment (PPE), such as a hard hat. Tools and materials falling from a scaffold can cause a serious brain injury. Recovery from brain injuries is often uncertain.
Site supervisors should set strict safety protocols for all workers, subcontractors, and site visitors.
Legal help if you’ve been in a scaffolding accident
If you have been hurt in a scaffolding accident, whether you were an employee on the job site or a visitor, you may have the legal right to demand compensation from the at-fault party.
Our legal team can help explain your options in a free consultation. Contact Havens & Associates at (713) 955-2215 to get started.
