Scaffolding Injuries Attorneys in Atlanta

Construction work is already dangerous, but adding scaffolding to the mix makes conditions for workers even more perilous. If the scaffolding isn’t in good working order for the job, the frame is in poor condition, the materials used can’t support the load, or the right safety equipment isn’t used, serious injury or death can occur.

The attorneys at Bailey, Javins & Carter, L.C. understand the hazards workers face when working on scaffolding. If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a scaffolding accident, we will launch an immediate investigation to determine who was responsible so that you can focus on your recovery. Contact our Atlanta office today to schedule a free consultation.

What Are the Different Types of Scaffolds?

According to OSHA, more than two million construction workers (or 65% of the construction workforce) in the U.S. use scaffolding. These temporary structures are used for a variety of functions in construction work, but they can be dangerous.

There are several basic types of scaffolds found in a construction environment. The supported scaffold is the most common, which is the steel structure that begins at the ground level and rises up the side of a building. It is made of steel tubes, crossbars, metal or wood platforms, and various attachments such as outriggers.

There are also suspended and lift scaffolds. A suspended scaffold is a platform that is lowered from the roof by ropes or chains. Lift scaffolds are attached to vehicles, where a worker is suspended in a fixed platform that raises and lowers hydraulically.

Common Causes of Scaffold Accidents

OSHA also reports that scaffolds are involved in over 4,500 injuries and 60 deaths each year. Roughly 15% of all fall fatalities in construction are from scaffolding. Some of the most common causes of scaffold accidents include:

• Falling off scaffolding. When workers fail to use proper safety equipment or aren’t properly trained, the risk of falls increases. Using unsecured ladders, and not using safety harnesses are leading causes of falls from scaffolding.
• Scaffolding that is improperly assembled. Scaffolding can fail when it is not assembled properly or assembled with the wrong materials.
• Falling objects. Falling equipment and debris is a hazard to workers on a scaffold and to those working below it.
• When the scaffolding comes into contact with a power source, the results can be devastating.

Safety Regulations Surrounding Scaffolding

Federal and state regulations create strict requirements for scaffolding design and setup. These are established by OSHA as well as the GA Code. Depending on the type of scaffold, companies must adhere to detailed specifications. These address footing, support, cross-bracing, load capacity, and other issues. Some examples include:

• All scaffolds (and every level) must have a safe means of access.
• Landings and steps must have nonslip treads.
• Stable, level footing is required for each scaffold.
• To avoid tipovers, scaffolding attached to buildings must be properly secured.
• Scaffolding must be at least 10 feet from electric power lines.
• Scaffolding cannot be erected, changed, moved, or dismantled without informing an appropriate supervisor.
• Scaffolds and rigging must be inspected before each shift.

In addition, some large-scale scaffolding must have a certified engineer involved to ensure that the structure is sound before use.

Scaffolding Accident Injuries and Death

In addition to wrongful death, scaffolding accidents can cause severe injuries. These include head injuries, spinal cord injuries, severe fractures, and electrocution.

When not fatal, these injuries can require substantial medical treatment. There may also be lost wages and a long period of disability. Workers’ compensation may pay for some of your costs, but you can’t count on your employer or their insurer to pay you the benefits you deserve.

What to Do If You’ve Been in a Scaffolding Accident

If you’ve been involved in a scaffolding accident, there’s a good chance that your injuries are serious. Not only is it critical that you seek prompt medical attention, but it’s also essential that an immediate investigation is launched into the accident.

While federal and state investigators may respond quickly to the scene to begin their investigation, not everyone is protecting your interests. You may have coverage under workers’ compensation if you were injured on the job, but a qualified accident attorney can ensure that you receive the compensation you need and deserve from all responsible parties.

Was your construction company cutting corners with its scaffolding? Some evidence of this that we might uncover includes:

• Overloading scaffolding with equipment or workers
• Failure to properly train workers
• Failure to routinely inspect scaffolding for hazards
• Failure to ensure proper construction of the scaffolding
• Working on scaffolding during inclement weather
• Failure to isolate scaffolding from power lines
• Failure to use fall arrest systems and guard rails to prevent falls
• Failure to use nets, screens, or canopies to protect from falling objects

If another party, such as a subcontractor, was to blame for your accident, you might be able to file a civil claim against them for additional damages. Likewise, if your accident was caused by a defective product, you would be able to file a product liability case. These are not things that your employer will tell you but rather something a qualified personal injury attorney can determine on your behalf.

Speak With an Experienced Atlanta Scaffolding Accident Attorney

The lawyers at Bailey, Javins & Carter, L.C. have extensive experience representing workers who suffer serious injury or wrongful death as a result of scaffolding accidents in Atlanta and the surrounding areas. When you work with us, we will launch an immediate investigation into your accident to identify the responsible parties, any witnesses, and preserve evidence.

Our legal team will serve as your liaison with the insurer, your employer, and any investigating authorities, such as OSHA. We will put our decades of experience to work for you and your loved ones as we fight for maximum compensation in your case.

Contact our office today at 678-981-5370 or reach out to us online to schedule your free legal consultation.