New York Construction Accident Deaths Drop in 2009

The New York Building Department reported a drop in construction fatalities in 2009, although construction accidents and injuries increased.

The building boom, which has dominated New York City in the last 10 years, had dwindled, which has contributed to the decrease in the number of construction-related deaths. The death rate decrease is the lowest rate in four years - only three deaths occurred in 2009 compared to 19 in 2008, an 85 percent drop, 12 in 2007 and 18 in 2006.

Many have credited the drop to an overhaul on safety procedures, including increased oversight and additional enforcement. Unfortunately, the number of reported construction accidents rose in 2009, despite the drop in number of new building permits. Reported injuries jumped from 246 from 178.

The New York Buildings Department credited the jump in the number of construction accidents and injuries to more accurate reports from contractors.

Two of the deaths were result of not using the required safety harness. Falls account for the greatest number of construction accident injuries, thus the need for a reliable and necessary safety harness. Additional injuries can be caused by trench collapses, exposure to toxic chemicals, overexertion, and injury due to defective equipment.

Because some injuries and construction-related deaths could be prevented by adhering to proper safety guidelines, many of those injured by a preventable injury choose to pursue a construction accident lawsuit to recover potential monetary damages.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reported that the highest number of work-related fatalities occurred among construction workers due to construction site accidents. At least one out of every 10 construction workers will be involved in a construction injury of some sort each year. Although many minor accidents are not reported, more accurate reports nationwide have given officials a more accurate picture of the risks associated with construction sites.

The decrease in the number of deaths is promising; however the injury increase has many concerned. Construction workers between the ages of 25 and 34 are most likely to be injured in a construction accident. Non-fatal accidents can include broken bones, burns and head injuries.

Many construction injuries are severe enough to prevent a worker from returning to work.

Both workers and supervisors are responsible for maintaining safety on the job site. Adhering to safety guidelines and regulations ensure the safety of all workers on a construction site.


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