Most contractors use scaffolding without a second thought when they are performing construction on a building. However, there are dangers involved in the use of scaffolding-some deadly-of which workers need to be aware.
Scaffolding consists of temporary structures, often made out of pipes and tubing, that allow workers to access parts of a building that cannot be reached from the ground level. Scaffolding can be many feet in the air, as high as a building is tall, which is why it can also pose significant dangers to workers using it.
The U.S. Department of Labor noted 88 deaths from the use of scaffolding and equipment related to scaffolding in 2008. Additionally, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, in 2006, scaffolding violations were at the top of the list of health and safety violations.
Falls from scaffolding account for 40 percent of scaffolding injuries, and a total of 72 percent of all injuries occur due to falls, the collapse of a support or plank, or by a falling object hitting an employee. While some of these injuries result in deaths, other injuries associated with scaffolding accidents include concussions and broken bones, which can force the employee to take time off of work.
There are ways to reduce the risks of scaffolding accidents. Scaffolding should be inspected before workers climb on it to ensure that it is up to safety standards and in working order. Workers should always wear safety harnesses and receive adequate safety training on the proper use of a harness, which can break the fall if the worker slips off of the scaffolding. Workers and construction companies should also make sure scaffolding is level and has safety guards to prevent objects on top of the scaffolding from falling and hitting someone underneath. Weight limits of scaffolding must be strictly adhered to, as scaffolding that collapses may injure or kill those standing underneath it, as well as those on top of it.
Depending upon the state in which the accident occurs, employees who are injured in scaffolding accidents at work sites have legal remedies available, including a potential workers' compensation claim.
