The epidemic of construction worker deaths in New York City is no secret. Many local and state leaders have pushed for safer conditions for workers, but most of the regulations have failed to curtail the problem because the penalties for negligent contractors and developers have been far too lenient. It’s possible that a new city law will help improve things.
As reported by Crain’s New York Business, the city council passed a bill that will require many construction workers to complete 30 hours of safety training by the end of 2018 and an additional 10 hours by next May. Will this mandate reduce the number of accident injuries and fatalities?
Things to know about the new law
According to the Crain’s article:
- A 10-hour OSHA-approved course was to have been taken by this past March by many of the city’s construction workers.
- The prevention of falls is a major topic of the training initiative; alcohol and drugs are also a focus. Falls from heights cause the majority of construction deaths in New York City.
- Some workers, like those who do less dangerous interior jobs, are not required to take the courses.
- Some parties think the new law favors union labor.
- There may be a shortage of instructors to teach the courses.
Things to do if you or a loved one is hurt
Regardless of what happens in the future with the city’s mandatory training, construction workers are still suffering serious injuries on the job. If you (or one of your family members) are hurt, it is important to get the legal advice you need, as soon as possible. An experienced construction accident attorney can help you understand whether you may be entitled to money damages through a third-party claim, a lawsuit against negligent parties.
