Defective Scaffolding Attorney

Product Liability Cases Involving Defective Scaffolding

If you were working on a construction site and were injured in a fall or were struck by an object as the result of defective scaffolding, a product liability attorney at Arnold & Itkin LLP may be able to assist you in taking legal action to seek fair compensation for your injuries.

Dangerous and defective scaffolding can lead to catastrophic injuries that may affect a worker for the rest of his or her life. Recovering monetary compensation can make all the difference in that worker's ability to begin rebuilding and moving on.

Types of Scaffolding

The term "scaffolding" refers to a temporary structure used to support workers during construction processes. A scaffold is a network of planks and frames connected by various types of couplers and bolts.

• A single pole scaffold is made of a single row and is placed against the structure for support.
• A birdcage scaffold is made of two or more rows of vertical poles connected by transoms and ledgers.
• A suspended scaffold has a suspended framework.
• A cantilever scaffold is one that is supported at only one end.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration enforces a detailed set of standards for the construction and installation of scaffolding. Manufacturers and construction site employers are required to follow these regulations to protect workers from scaffolding related accidents. Often, however, manufacturers and employers fail to adhere to OSHA's strict scaffolding standards, resulting in serious accidents. Scaffolding related accidents can include falls from defective scaffolding, collapses, electrocutions and other accidents.

OSHA Scaffolding Standards

OSHA's standards for scaffolding include provisions for size, design and stability of guardrails, footings, platforms and protection systems as well as detailed provisions for erecting and dismantling the scaffolding.

Here are some of the provisions that affirm a scaffold's stability and safety.

• Workers who are positioned above 10 feet from a lower level must be equipped with a personal fall protection system.
• Scaffold footings must be even and strong enough to support the scaffold.
• Mid rails must be positioned halfway between the platform and top rail.
• The scaffold platform must be completely decked or planked.
• Scaffolds must be protected from tipping dangers during the use of guying ties.
• The height of top rails must be between 38 inches and 45 inches.
• Installation of a scaffold must be done by trained employees.
• A designated employee must conduct a thorough inspection of the scaffold before beginning the day's shift looking for visible signs of defects in the scaffolding framework, as well as components.
• The erection and dismantling processes must be supervised by a competent person.
• Ropes and wires used in scaffolding must be sturdy, strong and free of wear and tear.

Product Liability Lawyers Serving Clients Nationwide

Scaffolding work is often dangerous considering the chance of a collapse, injuries from falling objects, electrocutions due to contact with power lines, etc. That is why design and construction of a scaffold must be executed with adherence to safety standards. Most accidents can be avoided if scaffolding has been properly designed according to the size, location and shape of the building it is meant to support.

Make sure you protect your right to receive compensation by involving a product liability lawyer as soon as possible. Though you may have grounds for a claim, waiting too long or accepting the first settlement offer may mean that you will be unable to recover the full amount of financial compensation you should be entitled to receive.

To discuss a claim related to defective scaffolding, contact a product liability lawyer at our firm.