How to Protect Against Falling Object Accidents
Falling objects are common on a construction site. It’s part of the reason everyone wears a hard hat. These accidents have the potential to be extremely dangerous and even fatal. Fortunately, many of them are preventable.
According to WRGB-TV, one worker died and another was injured last week in Lackawanna when a 3-ton steel beam fell on them at a manufacturing plant. Of course, the accident is under investigation to determine what caused it and what can be done to prevent future similar accidents; but in the meantime, revisiting safety precautions concerning falling objects may help.
According to OSHA, anytime there is work going on or objects at an elevation higher than you, you are at risk for falling object injuries. Similarly, flying objects produce risks whenever you are pulling, prying, or pushing. Both flying and falling objects can cause serious injuries.
General safety tips to prevent accidents like these include wearing a hard hat; stacking materials to prevent sliding, falling or collapsing; and using debris nets and toeboards. Inspecting equipment before use can prevent accidents, as can wearing proper safety equipment when dealing with particles and things that could become airborne.
When it comes to cranes and hoists, OSHA recommends:
- Avoid working underneath loads being moved.
- Barricade hazard areas and post warning signs.
- Inspect cranes and hoists to see that all components, such as wire rope, lifting hooks, chains, etc., are in good condition.
- Do not exceed lifting capacity of cranes and hoists.
If work is happening overhead:
- Secure tools and materials to prevent them from falling on people below.
- Barricade hazard areas and post warning signs.
- Use toeboards, screens, or guardrails on scaffolds to prevent falling objects, or,
- Use debris nets, catch platforms, or canopies to catch or deflect falling objects.
Falling objects tend to cause head injuries. While hard hats can limit the damage of these injuries, if something falls from a high enough level, they can’t cushion the blow completely. Even with a hard hat on, injury is possible.
How Ginarte Lawyers Can Help
If you’ve been hurt by a falling or flying object, the New York and New Jersey construction accident lawyers of Ginarte may be able to help. Your employer and numerous parties have a responsibility to keep the job site safe. When this doesn’t happen and you are hurt as a result, you could be entitled to compensation.
Contact us today in New York and New Jersey by calling (888) GINARTE for a free consultation and to discuss your legal options.
