Watch Out for Falling Objects at a Construction Site

With Jersey City booming, more and more construction sites are popping up throughout our fair city. According to a recent news article, not only is the tallest building in New Jersey being built on Hudson Street, but there are plans for several condominium buildings to be built. With the increase in construction sites, there is also an increase in construction site accidents.

Did you know that being struck by an object at a construction site is second most common work accident? According to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration, 10 percent of the total deaths at construction site was caused by a fallen object in 2013.  And construction workers are not the only ones who can be seriously injured by falling debris. A pedestrian who is just walking near the active construction site can be at risk.

What can be the cause of falling objects? The possibilities are endless but the most common accidents involve negligence on part of the construction company, such as:

• Failure to use barricades to limit access to the site
• Failure to post warning signs
• Failure of workers or site visitors to wear safety equipment such as hard hats
• Failure to workers to hold on to tools

So how can you protect yourself from such a construction site accident? If you’re a construction site worker, make sure you stay attentive by any hazards ad always wear the appropriate safety gear. And remember to document any safety violations you may witness while working. If you’re a pedestrian, be very aware of your surroundings when passing by a construction site. And don’t trespass!

If you are a construction worker who was injured by falling debris at a construction site, you’re going to need some legal help. Contact the Law Offices of Anthony Carbone today for a free consultation.