Electrical Hazards at Construction Sites
A general contractor or property manager has a responsibility to get rid of or block off any electrical hazards that may cause serious harm to anyone working on the site. Unfortunately, electrical hazards are often left unaddressed, causing harm to unsuspecting workers. Because of New York labor law, section 241-6, which states that all construction sites must be kept safe, construction workers who suffer harm as a result of an electrical hazard can hold these responsible general contractors and property owners financially liable.
If you have sustained an injury in a construction accident, you may be able to file for financial compensation for those injuries. For a free consultation regarding your rights and options after an electrical accident injury, contact a New York City construction accident lawyer of Hach & Rose, LLP, today at (212) 779-0057.
Electrical Accidents on Construction Sites
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), electrical accidents kill nearly 350 construction workers every year. Electrical accidents can occur due to a number of factors, including power line contact, loose connectors, steam accidents, old wiring, and electrical cords under carpeting. Electrical accident injuries can include burns and falls caused by contact with electrical energy. Injuries can also result from fires caused by electrical accidents. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that roughly 40,000 residential fires are caused by electrical accidents every year.
In certain trades, working with electrical current is unavoidable and necessary. There are specific OSHA guidelines that protect construction workers who perform work involving dangerous and hazardous situations. The New York State labor law also protects construction workers injured in electrical accidents. Unfortunately, many times these standards are not followed or are overlooked.
Electrical Safety Concerns for Construction Workers
Many injuries attributed to an electrical accident at a construction site are preventable. However, injuries occur despite this due to the following:
- Vehicular wiring or battery defects
- Faulty tool wiring
- Overhead power line safety problems
- Underground power line safety problems
- Electrical hazards with standing pools of water
If a worker is injured as a result of an electrical hazard, the treatment needed for a shock or burn injury may prove extremely expensive. However, that injured individual may be able to sue for financial coverage for these costs.
Contact Us
An injury caused by an electrical hazard at work may leave you with long-term financial concerns due to expensive medical treatment costs. Fortunately, compensation may be available. At Hach & Rose, LLP, our experienced construction accident lawyers will fight to obtain the compensation you deserve following an electrical accident. Speak with one of our experienced attorneys today at (212) 779-0057.