Why Are Scaffolding Injuries So Common?

Scaffolding is an essential yet perilous tool in the construction industry. Despite its widespread use and critical importance, scaffolding is often a source of severe injuries and fatalities among construction workers. At Saks, Robinson & Rittenberg, Ltd., we have dedicated ourselves to representing injured individuals and helping them seek the compensation they deserve. We help workers understand why scaffolding injuries are so common, the causes behind these accidents and the types of injuries that frequently occur.

The Prevalence of Scaffolding Injuries

Scaffolding injuries are alarmingly common in the construction sector. These elevated working surfaces are used by builders, bricklayers, painters, electricians and other tradespeople to perform their tasks safely and efficiently. However, when scaffolding systems fail or are misused, they become hazardous. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), scaffolding is one of the leading causes of fatal construction accidents, highlighting the gravity of this issue.

Common Causes of Scaffolding Injuries

Structural Failures and Instability

One of the primary reasons scaffolding accidents occur is due to structural failures. These can result from overloading the scaffolding with more weight than it was designed to bear or from instability caused by improper setup. Inadequate inspection and maintenance can exacerbate these issues, leading to weakened planks and support structures that are prone to collapse.

Inadequate Safety Measures

Many scaffolding injuries can be attributed to insufficient safety measures. Workers without proper safety harnesses and equipment are at a higher risk of falls. Additionally, lack of adequate training on how to use scaffolding safely can lead to misuse and accidents. Employers who push workers to operate under unsafe conditions, such as during high winds or extreme temperatures, further increase the likelihood of scaffolding-related injuries.

External Factors

External factors such as environmental conditions and nearby activities also contribute to scaffolding accidents. For instance, exposure to the elements over time can deteriorate scaffolding materials, making them more susceptible to failure. Vehicles or machinery colliding with the scaffolding can cause sudden structural collapses, while falling tools and debris can strike workers below, resulting in serious injuries.

Types of Scaffolding Injuries

Falls

Falls from scaffolding are among the most common and dangerous accidents. Workers can suffer from fractures, broken bones, internal injuries and even death, depending on the height from which they fall. These incidents often stem from unstable scaffolding or lack of proper fall protection.

Struck-By Incidents

Injuries can also occur when workers are struck by falling tools, materials or debris from above. These struck-by incidents can cause head injuries, lacerations and other serious harm.

Electrocutions

Proximity to power lines poses a significant risk for electrocution. Without proper safety precautions, workers can come into contact with live wires, resulting in severe burns or fatal electrical shocks.

Long-Term Disabilities

Scaffolding accidents can lead to long-term disabilities, preventing individuals from returning to work. Injuries like spinal cord damage, paralysis and amputations can have lasting impacts on victims’ lives. In these cases, workers may be entitled to compensation for lost future earnings, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.

Take the Next Steps With An Attorney

Scaffolding injuries are a prevalent and serious concern in the construction industry, often stemming from structural failures, inadequate safety measures, and external factors. The resulting injuries can be life-altering, emphasizing the importance of understanding your legal rights if you or a loved one has been injured in a scaffolding accident.

At Saks, Robinson & Rittenberg, Ltd., our experienced attorneys are committed to fighting for the rights of injured workers. Contact us today for assistance with your case.