Many individuals earn their livings in the construction industry. Unfortunately, construction accidents are fairly common occurrences, and in such events, individuals are often seriously or fatally wounded. A recent report indicated that a study conducted regarding New York construction sites offered distressing information regarding the risks at such sites and the individuals most likely to be harmed.
The New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health released a report stating that over the course of nearly a decade, 464 construction workers suffered fatal injuries while on the job. In 2015, Latino workers made up 57 percent of the work-related fatalities that occurred due to construction site falls. This number indicates that Latino workers are more vulnerable to being the victims of such accidents than other races.
The report also stated that this group is more at risk due to recklessness on the part of employers. In addition to being at risk for injury, these individuals are also more likely to be victims of wage theft. Additionally, the report found that non-union construction sites harbored more violations and potential dangers to workers than union sites.
This information could cause many individuals to question their safety while on the job. If New York workers are injured in construction accidents, they may face many financial hardships that could lead to additional struggles. However, these parties may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits that could help them make ends meet. Interested individuals may wish to confer with experienced attorneys to better understand their potential for receiving benefits and how their circumstances could affect their qualifications.
Source: Salon, “The deadly reality of construction work: Minorities suffer most from workplace negligence“, Michael Arria, Feb. 20, 2017
