Blasting Accident Results in Safer Practices
Just a few weeks ago, we blogged about a blasting accident in Manhattan. It was a controlled blast, but it left debris and rocks flying through the air. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but the accident has changed the procedures for future controlled blasts in the city.
The Manhattan accident happened Aug. 21 as workers were blasting for an escalator into the planned Second Avenue subway line. Two 1, 800-pound steel plates were lifted into the air during the blast, sending debris everywhere. Officials are hoping that new safety practices will prevent this from happening again.
Now, according to NBC New York, a superintendent will have to sign off on a pre-blast checklist before blasting can take place. Also, a second licensed blaster will have to go behind the first, double-checking that proper safety measures are in place. Finally, a double layer of protective mats will be used when blasting in shafts.
Blasting at the Second Avenue subway site had been suspended until the new measures were put in place. Now blasting is set to resume. Unfortunately an art gallery has yet to reopen after the blast left a crack in his floor.
The MTA and the workers on the site are fortunate that no one was injured. Similar accidents have resulted in far greater losses. This sort of accident puts at risk not only the workers but all people around the job site.
Following the accident, an MTA investigation led to the development of the new safety precautions. This is usually how it happens — an accident spurs tighter safety regulations. Ideally, the regulations would be in place to prevent the accident from happening at all. Unfortunately, that isn’t always possible.
When you work on a construction site, things may seem to be safe until a tragedy occurs. It’s only then that safety shortcomings are noticed and corrected. But that’s often too late.
Your Rights as a Construction Accident Victim
The New York and New Jersey construction accident lawyers of Ginarte know how difficult it can be to be out of work following a construction accident. Fortunately, you have rights. When you are put in an unsafe environment and injured as a result, someone must be held accountable. We can help.
Contact our offices today to discuss your case and your legal options. You could be entitled to compensation for your injuries and more. Call (888) GINARTE today.
