Construction Site Accidents Yield Fewer Deaths In New York

The New York Building Department reported a drop in construction fatalities in 2009, although construction accidents and injuries increased.

The dramatic decrease has been linked to the decline in the building boom that has characterized the New York City landscape for the last 10 years. The death rate decrease is the lowest rate in four years - only three deaths occurred in 2009 compared to 19 in 2008, an 85 percent drop, 12 in 2007 and 18 in 2006.

Many have credited the drop to an overhaul on safety procedures, including increased oversight and additional enforcement. Unfortunately, the number of reported construction accidents rose in 2009, despite the drop in number of new building permits. Reported injuries jumped from 246 from 178.

The New York Buildings Department credited the jump in the number of construction accidents and injuries to more accurate reports from contractors.

Two of the three deaths were result of the lack of required safety harnesses. Reliable safety harnesses are a vital necessity as falls are the largest contributing factor for a construction injury. Trench collapses, overexertion, defective equipment and exposure to toxic chemicals are contributing factors to a construction site accident.

Because some injuries and construction-related deaths could be prevented by adhering to proper safety guidelines, many of those injured by a preventable injury choose to pursue a construction accident lawsuit to recover potential monetary damages.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reported that the highest number of work-related fatalities occurred among construction workers due to construction site accidents. At least one out of every 10 construction workers will be involved in a construction injury of some sort each year. Although many minor accidents are not reported, more accurate reports nationwide have given officials a more accurate picture of the risks associated with construction sites.

The decrease in the number of deaths is promising; however the increase in injuries is cause for concern. Construction workers between the ages of 25 and 34 are most likely to be injured in a construction accident. Non-fatal accidents can include broken bones, burns and head injuries.

Although a worker may survive a construction accident, some accidents may be severe enough to prevent a worker from returning to work.

Both workers and supervisors are responsible for maintaining safety on the job site. Adhering to safety guidelines and regulations ensure the safety of all workers on a construction site.