At Waple & Houk, our dedicated Charlotte workers’ compensation attorneys understand the risks faced by construction workers. According to the latest data from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), approximately 2.3 million workers in the construction industry, accounting for over two-thirds of the workforce, regularly work on scaffolding. This staggering statistic highlights the importance of safety and the need for legal support in case of workplace injuries.
Scaffolds are elevated, temporary work platforms used by workers to hoist themselves, materials, and equipment, which means most of the workers using them are doing so at significant heights.
Safeguarding the millions of workers from scaffold-related accidents can significantly reduce injuries and fatalities each year. Adhering to OSHA standards is key to preventing incidents such as collapsing planks, slips, lack of fall protection, and falling objects. Ensuring compliance not only protects workers but also promotes a safer working environment.
If you or a loved one has been harmed or tragically lost their life in a scaffolding accident in North Carolina, reach out to our experienced workers’ compensation attorneys in Mecklenburg County. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
A recent study by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics highlights a concerning statistic: over 70% of scaffold accidents stem from three primary causes:
Alarmingly, falls from scaffolds constitute about 25% of all fatal falls in the workplace. To combat these hazards, OSHA has introduced “State Plans” for 28 states, including North Carolina’s State Plans. These plans mandate that scaffolding sites adhere to safety standards and enforcement programs that are at least as effective as OSHA’s while also allowing for stricter requirements if necessary. Failure to comply with these regulations puts North Carolina workers at significant risk of injury or even fatality in these preventable accidents.
When they do, we want to help hold the liable party accountable.
If you have or a loved one has been harmed in a North Carolina workplace scaffolding accident, or if your employer is not following the federal or state safety standards, contact our experienced Charlotte workers’ compensation attorneys to discuss your case during a free consultation today by calling us or contacting us online. We are here to help give a voice to the injured and their families.