Delaware construction sites are dangerous working environments, with dozens of workers completing many tasks simultaneously, both on the ground and up on scaffolds. Staying on budget and within the timeframe allotted can put stress on employers and create an unsafe working environment.
According to the State of Delaware, any scaffolding, including staging swung, erected with stationary supports or suspended from overhead support more than 20 feet from the ground must have fall protection. This includes a safety rail at least 34 inches above the platform, bolted, secured and braced properly. The materials used for these safety rails must be appropriate for the working conditions and purpose.
Competent and qualified personnel
If you work on a construction site that includes completing duties while on a scaffold, competent and qualified personnel must ensure the structure meets state and federal guidelines. This includes ensuring its construction meets the job requirements and safety standards. You must receive training before beginning work on-site, regardless of your duties. Carpenters, plumbers, welders and various other specialty workers must have the same training as everyone else on the construction crew, irrespective of how much time they spend there.
Factors involved in negligence
Workers’ compensation laws typically cover workers who suffer falling injuries. However, you may recover additional damages if employer negligence played a role in your accident. Contributing factors may include:
- Negligence in the training, supervision or staffing, resulting in unsafe scaffold conditions
- Precautions regarding the scaffold construction failed safety requirements
- Scaffolding components or design did not meet the job needs
- OSHA violations involved scaffolds, ladders or forklifts
Construction site accidents involving falls can result in catastrophic injuries. Broken bones, spinal cord injuries, damage to internal organs and traumatic brain injury can require long-term care and medical expenses. Workers’ compensation may help recover damages and compensate for lost wages, hospital bills and other costs.