Many jobs in construction, electrical, and other industries are at risk for falls from heights while at work. While a workplace injury due to a fall can be a result of a simple accident, in many cases, the fall was due to negligence by your employer or faulty manufacturing of safety equipment. It is a good idea to file a lawsuit due to a fall at work; protecting your rights is important. Contact a lawyer today to learn about your legal rights.
Sadly, injuries caused by falls from heights can usually be prevented. There are many things that your employer can do to create a safer working environment. As an employer, doing these things can prevent a lawsuit due to a fall by an employer. Some ways to help prevent a workplace injury when working at heights include:
- Put up railing when possible, and make sure that this railing is secured with proper installation and continually maintained to ensure safety now and in the future.
- Use fall restraint systems like harnesses whenever you're working at heights of 10 feet or more.
- Make sure that all employees are trained in how to use safety equipment to prevent falls from heights.
Harnesses are a good way to prevent a workplace injury when working at heights. In fact, in some states, employers are required by law to provide harnesses for there employees. There are a number of harness options available, the safest of which hook in the front and have multiple adjustable buckles in order to ensure that it fits safely. Harnesses must also be fully maintained, which is important when you're in environment where dirt and debris can damage the harness. It is your employers' responsibility to provide harnesses, train you on how to use it, and maintain the equipment.
If you've been injured because safety equipment wasn't maintained or provided, you have legal rights. Safety equipment may also be defective, and if so, you should look to the manufacturer when filing a lawsuit due to a fall. A good legal team can help you determine if your employer or a manufacturer is at fault.
According the U.S. Department of Labor and Statistics, 15 to 20% of all workers' compensation claims deal with falls at work. A workplace injury can be quite expensive, and with 1,400 workers dying every year while on the job, it is important to file a lawsuit if you have experienced a fall while at work to prevent your employer from continuing unsafe practices. A lawsuit due to a fall can be quite daunting, however. You have legal rights! Contract Anapol Schwartz today to talk about your case.
Michael Monheit, Esq. is a "Philadelphia Attorney" licensed to practice in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. He is the founder of the Pennsylvania Law Firm - Monheit Law and a member of a law firm familiar with Paralysis and Construction Site Lawsuits - Anapol Schwartz Weiss Cohan Feldman & Smalley. The firm's practice areas include: Construction Accidents & Paralysis Accidents.
He can be reached toll free 866-761-1385 or from the firm's web site.