In fact, 174 people died in North Carolina in 2016 due to work-related accidents.
If you’re injured on the job, or a loved one died, you may be eligible for worker’s compensation.
What Legal And Safety Responsibilities Must Construction Companies Comply With?
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets laws to govern safety on construction sites. For example, OSHA requires that no worker or contractor be required to work in “working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to their health or safety.” So, it’s the construction company or building’s responsibility to create a safe environment for all.
To ensure this doesn’t happen, OSHA requires frequent and regular inspections of the job sites, materials, and equipment to be made by competent persons designated by the employers.
Construction companies must ensure the worksite is safe by providing things such as illuminating construction areas, aisles, stairs, ramps, runways, corridors, offices, shops, and storage areas where work is in progress with either natural or artificial illumination.
The employer must also provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to workers and the proper training to help prevent injury.
Construction companies must also provide first aid services, and provisions for medical care shall be made.
These protections also apply to temporary workers.
OSHA states, “Construction companies should record injuries and illnesses on only one employer’s ‘OSHA 300’ injury and illness log… In most cases, the host employer is responsible for recording the injuries and illnesses of temporary workers. … Injury and illness recordkeeping responsibility is determined by supervision. Employers must record the injuries and illnesses of temporary workers if they supervise such workers on a day-to-day basis.”
What Should I Do If I Was Injured While At A Construction Site?
If you’ve been injured while working a construction job, notify your employer and seek medical attention immediately. If you’re able, take pictures of the scene where you were injured. After receiving medical treatment, ask for copies of your medical records to use as evidence. There are some restrictions in suing the employer in these matters, but worker’s compensation will likely be rewarded.
If you were injured in a non-working capacity, Hyland, Padilla, & Fowler can help, too.
After you have sought medical attention, reach out to Hyland, Padilla, & Fowler’s personal injury lawyers for a free consultation. Our team can help you compile evidence and analyze your situation to win you the proper compensation to care for your injuries and make up for any lost wages.