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A brief guide to New York’s Scaffold Law

On Behalf of | Jan 20, 2025 | Construction Accidents

The New York Scaffold Law, officially known as Labor Law 240, holds contractors and property owners responsible for providing proper safety equipment and measures for workers who perform tasks at elevated heights. It covers most construction workers who work at heights, from painters and window washers to electricians and carpenters.

What types of accidents does the Scaffold Law cover?

The New York Scaffold Law protects workers from “gravity-related” accidents, where falling – either of a person or an object – is the main cause of injury. This includes:

  • Falls from heights like scaffolds, ladders or roofs
  • Being struck by falling objects
  • Injuries from collapsing structures, such as scaffolds giving way
  • Accidents due to faulty safety equipment
  • Injuries from swinging loads not properly controlled
  • Falls through unprotected openings in floors or walls

It’s important to understand that these aren’t just minor incidents. Gravity-related accidents can lead to serious injuries. Workers might suffer traumatic brain injuries, damage to their spinal cord or multiple broken bones. These injuries can change a person’s life in an instant, affecting their ability to work and even perform everyday tasks.

When are property owners or contractors liable?

Courts can hold property owners and contractors liable for construction injuries that occur due to:

  • Failure to provide proper safety equipment like secure scaffolding, safety harnesses or guardrails
  • Providing equipment that is defective or inadequate for the job
  • Failure to ensure that workers are using safety equipment correctly
  • Not properly training workers on safety procedures

Take note that owners of one- and two-family homes are not liable under this law if they don’t direct or control the construction work.

The Scaffold Law operates under a principle called “strict liability.” This means the worker doesn’t have to prove negligence. If you receive a serious injury while working from a height, you may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.

You deserve fair compensation

After a scaffold-related injury, you shouldn’t have to worry about financial burdens on top of your recovery. An attorney can advocate for your rights while guiding you through the process.

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