Recent reports reveal a troubling rise in construction accidents and fatalities in New York City. According to a CBS News report, the number of construction-related injuries and deaths increased by 240% between 2011 and 2015—a staggering statistic that predates the latest string of tragic incidents. Advocates are urging regulators to address safety issues that continue to jeopardize workers’ lives.
Recent Construction Accidents Highlight Ongoing Safety Concerns
Queens Roof Collapse
On June 20, 2017, three workers were critically injured when a roof collapsed during construction in Queens. A crane operator had accidentally dropped a heavy bundle of materials onto the building’s top floor, causing the roof to give way. Two workers were pulled from the debris quickly, but a third required rescue by firefighters. The contractor responsible, Ideal Builders and Construction, had a history of violations, including 14 public safety citations in two years.
Fatal Elevator Shaft Fall in Manhattan
A 22-year-old construction worker fell to his death down an elevator shaft on August 18, 2017, at a Manhattan site.
A Deadly Day: September 21, 2017
On this day alone:
- A 44-year-old father of five fell from the 29th floor of a Lower Manhattan construction site, landing on scaffolding.
- Hours later, two workers fell three stories from a bucket lift. One was killed, and the other critically injured. The site had previously been cited for safety violations and had experienced multiple accidents earlier in the year.
Why Are Construction Accidents on the Rise?
Worker safety advocates highlight systemic problems that put lives at risk:
- Inadequate Training: Many workers are not properly trained or equipped with necessary safety tools like harnesses.
- Illegal Safety Card Sales: Training certification cards are reportedly being sold on the black market, undermining their purpose.
- Negligent Oversight: Some contractors prioritize profits over safety, treating workers as expendable.
New York City Responds: Construction Safety Bill
In response to the rising fatalities, the New York City Council approved a new construction safety bill on September 21, 2017. The legislation requires workers to complete a minimum of 40 hours of safety training by December 2018, with potential extensions until September 2020 if training facilities fall short.
Training Requirements:
- 10 Hours by March 2018: Equivalent to OSHA’s 10-hour safety course.
- 30 Additional Hours: Further training to address job site hazards.
- 10–25 Hours of Supplemental Training: At least 8 hours focused on preventing falls at construction sites.
Workers who have completed a 100-hour training program within the last five years are exempt.
Criticism of the Safety Bill
While the bill aims to improve safety, critics argue it could disproportionately affect minority and immigrant workers due to the costs and time required to complete the training. Although the bill offers incentives for developers to pay for the courses, some contractors may still bear financial burdens.
Advocates, including Gary LaBarbera, president of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York, have called on developers and the real estate industry to step up. He stated, “If the Real Estate Board of New York is so concerned about who pays for the training, they should pay for it themselves since obviously, they have the resources.”
The Path Forward: Prioritizing Worker Safety
With over 40 construction fatalities between 2015 and 2017, it’s clear that stronger safety measures are essential. The new training requirements are a step in the right direction, but consistent enforcement and industry accountability are crucial to making construction sites safer for everyone.
Injured in a Construction Accident? HKD Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help
If you or a loved one has been injured in a construction accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At HKD Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand the complexities of construction accident cases and are dedicated to fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you navigate your legal options. You don’t have to face this alone — we’re here to help you every step of the way.