According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), approximately 2.3 million U.S. construction workers work on scaffolding every day. Of those workers, nearly 4500 are injured on scaffolding every year. In order to reduce the number of construction workers who are severely injured on scaffolding, OSHA has compiled the following scaffolding safety recommendations:
- Scaffolding should be solidly constructed, rigid, and able to support its’ own weight, plus four times the maximum intended load limit, without settling or displacement.
- Unstable objects including barrels, boxes, and bricks should not be used to support the scaffolds or planks.
- Scaffolding should be set up, dismantled, and moved under the direct supervision of a competent and trained individual.
- Scaffolding should include guardrails, mid-rails, and toe-boards.
- Scaffolding should be inspected regularly—repairs should be made as quickly as possible.
- Rigging on suspension scaffolds should be inspected at the start of every work shift to ensure structural integrity.
- Rope used in suspension scaffolding should be protected from heat sources.
- Scaffolds should be kept at least ten feet away from power lines.
If you were injured in a Chicago construction site accident, an experienced Chicago personal injury attorney at Lane Brown can help. Whether you are having trouble obtaining the workers’ compensation benefits you are due or wonder if a third party might be liable for your injuries, we are here for you. Our skilled attorneys will review your case, answer your questions, and help you to understand your legal options. Contact us today at 312-332-1400 to schedule your free consultation. We will fight for the compensation you deserve.
