Workers across the country, including in Oklahoma, are exposed to numerous safety hazards, some of them potentially life-threatening. Fall accidents make up a significant part of workplace injury statistics. Whenever a project involves scaffolding, specific safety regulations must be followed. Workers must have clear guidelines related to the erection and dismantling of scaffolds to avoid workplace accidents that may have catastrophic consequences.
Unfortunately, some company owners want to get jobs done as fast as possible, often jeopardizing the safety of workers. At the construction site of a new football stadium in another state, workers were recently dismantling a scaffolding structure when one worker suffered severe injuries. Not many details were reported, but it appears the worker was struck by a piece of metal that became dislodged during the removal of the scaffolding.
The worker was reportedly rushed to a hospital for treatment of severe head injuries. There has been no update on his subsequent condition. The accident is currently being investigated by the construction company. The Occupational and Health Administration will likely step in to conduct a thorough investigation to determine whether the accident was the result of safety violations.
Oklahoma workers who have suffered similar injuries may be concerned for the welfare of their families while they are unable to return to work. Fortunately, the workers’ compensation insurance fund provides financial aid to any worker who has been incapacitated due to a workplace injury. Not only will medical expenses be covered, but also a portion of the worker’s lost wages. This financial package is typically based on the latest wage level of the injured victim.
Source: ajc.com, “Scaffolding falls on worker at new Atlanta Falcons stadium site”, Tyler Estep, July 1, 2015