While most people in Illinois recognize that hazards are faced in almost all circumstances, some may be unaware of the many dangers construction workers face. In addition to the heavy machinery used, many employees are working at great heights without the protection of windows, walls and floors to prevent them from falling. A recent out-of-state construction accident involving a fall recently proved fatal for a worker.
The accident happened in early April. Reports indicate that the man was working with concrete on a building that was under construction. He was on the sixth floor of the building, or approximately 60 feet in the air. He reportedly fell from the scaffolding.
Unfortunately, he died at the scene of the accident. The cause of his fall is currently under investigation. If an investigation conducted by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration reveals that health or safety standards were violated leading to the accident, the man’s employer could face citations and/or fines.
While there are many safeguards in place to protect workers in Illinois from accidents such as this, falls contribute to a large number of fatal accidents in a construction setting. Because of this construction accident, a family is now facing a future without their loved one. While the emotional ramifications of their loss may seem obvious, many people who have experienced a similar tragedy also struggle with the financial consequences. For example, they will have to deal with funeral expenses and loss of wages. While they are likely entitled to workers’ compensation, they may require assistance from an experienced professional to fight for all of the benefits to which they may be entitled.
Source: equipmentworld.com, “Worker killed in 6-story fall on New York City jobsite”, Wayne Grayson, April 6, 2015
