Scaffolds allow construction work to be performed at heights by offering a larger support surface than ladders can provide. However, above-ground work introduces risks for construction accidents that can be serious or even fatal. To better protect your employees, discover the most common preventable causes of scaffolding accidents below.

What Typically Causes Scaffolding Accidents?

1. Poor Equipment

Employers are responsible for following standards outlined by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) when erecting scaffolds. OSHA offers extensive resources, including checklists, to ensure these structures are constructed with the proper materials. For instance, if scaffolds aren't made with adequate decking, planks, braces, and counterweights, the surface may fail to support workers' weight, leading to loss of balance and collapse.

2. Improper Training

Under OSHA law, employers must have every employee who erects, disassembles, moves, operates, repairs, maintains, or inspects scaffolds trained in proper procedures. Training should also encompass hazards and maximum capacity. If all employees involved are trained in appropriate techniques, the risk for overloaded or unsafe scaffolding and other mistakes decreases.

3. Lack of Supervision

Even when employees are properly trained, construction site supervisors must still reinforce critical principles to keep their employees safe. OSHA requires retraining for employees that fail to demonstrate sufficient skill or understanding of proper scaffolding use. Thus, supervisors are responsible for monitoring activities and addressing any safety hazards as they arise. For instance, they must enforce the appropriate use of fall protection equipment, ensure only trained personnel is using scaffolds, and keep employees from working below the scaffolding to prevent construction accidents.

If you were injured in a scaffolding or other type of construction accident, turn to Bellotti Law Group, P.C. for help. Serving the Boston metro area since 1989, this trusted attorney helps clients who have experienced personal injuries pursue the compensation they need to help cover medical bills, missed wages, and other damages. Find out more about their approach to scaffolding cases online, or set up a consultation by calling (617) 778-1000.