When workers rush into an area that has been devastated through a natural disaster or other large-scale event, often there is a feeling of urgency to rebuild and give people back their homes and businesses. However, in the rush to get things done, sometimes construction workers end up injured, putting a further delay on projects. Defective equipment, disregard of safety rules and other issues unnecessarily put workers in harm’s way. Back injuries can prevent a worker from providing for their family and have been known to cause a lifetime of pain and discomfort.
This appears to be the situation after Hurricane Sandy devastated a good portion of neighborhoods in New York City and other east coast locations. Two workers have died in construction site accidents and others have been injured as contractors reportedly ignored warnings according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s records.
In one injury case, a worker was not wearing any eye protection when he was splashed with battery acid. In another case, a worker claims that a contractor expressed a nonchalant attitude when it was pointed out that workers were not wearing any fall protection while on a roof. The records from OSHA indicate that there were over 3,000 unsafe working conditions noted.
When workers are injured because managers choose to ignore safety guidelines and rules, they can find themselves in a difficult position. Unable to work, these men often have family members that are left without financial support. While workers’ compensation can help, applying for it can be extremely difficult. Workers may find it beneficial to seek the assistance of an experienced attorney.
Source: New York Daily News, “Safety rules often ignored in post-Hurricane Sandy cleanup, many workers put at risk,” Erica Pearson and Greg B. Smith, April 28, 2013