Each year, countless New York City construction workers experience preventable injuries on the job. Sadly, some of them die.
Among the most common causes of these injuries are falls from heights, trips and slips, falling objects and problems with machines, equipment and vehicles. But there are many other ways in which a job site can be unsafe for workers.
A recent construction accident in the Flatiron District surprised many people because it was brought on not by any of these causes but by high levels of carbon monoxide, according to ABC Eyewitness News. The incident involved nine workers, who were treated after exposure to high levels of the deadly gas.
Colorless, odorless and deadly
Most of us know carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, dangerous gas, but we don’t expect to be exposed to it at work. The ABC report said the carbon monoxide incident occurred while workers were pouring foundation at a construction site on 29th Street and Madison Avenue.
According to the article, the workers may have been exposed to carbon monoxide levels of up to 750 parts per million, which is more than 75 times higher than what is healthy. The city’s Department of Buildings (DOB) issued a Stop Work Order in response to the incident.
If it happens to your family
Many construction workers have been hurt because of the negligence of contractors and other parties. Many times, these parties cut corners in the name of profit, and workers suffer as a result.
If you or someone you love was hurt on a construction site, you should learn about your legal rights. You may be entitled to money damages via a third-party claim, a lawsuit intended to hold negligent parties accountable.
