Fordham University Accident Highlights Elevator Shaft Safety
On Monday, a construction worker was critically injured after falling down an elevator shaft.The incident happened at a Fordham University Building near Lincoln Center.
According to the New York Daily News, Anastassios (Tommy) Intzeyiannis, a 41-year-old worker, was working in an elevator shaft at the university’s new law school building when the harness he was wearing snapped.Tommy then plunged five-stories down the shaft.
Authorities say about half-way into the fall he hit a plywood plank, which likely broke his fall and saved his life.Tommy suffered a fractured spine, leg, and ribs. He also required surgery to control internal bleeding.
Elevator shaft accidents can be extremely harmful to construction workers. But they are also some of the most preventable types of construction site accidents.
Most elevator shaft accidents occur because of lack of proper barricading in front of the elevator shaft or lack of warning signs. Both of these elevator shaft safety precautions are required by the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA).
According to OSHA, workers employed in elevator shaft construction should also be familiar with other general safety requirements, such as:
- Personal protective equipment;
- Confined spaces;
- Illumination;
- Safety belts;
- Safety nets;
- Standard guardrails;
- Material hoists.
When you are working on a site like this, you have to be certain that the site is safe, and that you are taking all necessary precautions to prevent injury. Your employer has an obligation to make sure your worksite is safe too.
How Ginarte Can Help
If you have been injured in an elevator shaft accident, we may be able to help you. You could be entitled to compensation for the results of the accident.
Our NY / NJ construction accident attorneys are committed to getting justice for our clients.Contact us today to discuss your accident.Call 888-GINARTE or fill out our online contact form.
