In recent years the construction industry, like so many other markets, has been depressed. However, many are speculating that in the wake of Sandy, there will be a surge in construction work occurring in New York City beginning in the first few months of 2013.
However, with this possibly growing demand there could be a shortage of workers that have the necessary skills to be working on some of these sites. The higher-than-average pay can be a draw for many to become a construction worker, but many residents of New York City are unaware that construction work has the highest national average for workplace fatalities.
Construction sites in New York City can pose risks related to falling debris, scaffolding collapses, malfunctioning equipment, ladder accidents, crane accidents and so many more dangerous situations — particularly if workers lack adequate training.
There are strict guidelines in place to prevent workplace injuries and fatalities stemming from accidents of this nature, however, contractors and construction site managers are too often eager to cut corners in an effort to save costs. This can and does lead to serious injury and loss of life.
Construction never stops in Manhattan, and if there is an increase in the coming months, this could mean that parties responsible for construction site safety become more lax, and the toll on workers and their wellbeing increases as companies look to turn a quick profit.
Luckily, if a construction worker is seriously injured in a workplace accident, the worker can stand to financially recoup. Workers’ compensation benefits can work to cover medical expenses associated with workplace injuries, as well as supplement lost income. Often, injured construction workers can greatly benefit from seeking an empathetic advocate that will work to ensure the injured worker receives their fair compensation critical for recouping.
Source: The Huffington Post, “Hurricane Sandy Construction Hiring Could Aid U.S. Economy, Experts Say,” Alex Veiga and Matthew Perrone, Nov. 4, 2012
- Our firm has experience aiding injured construction workers. For more information, please visit our New York construction accident page.