How to Avoid Scaffolding Accidents in Kansas City

Every year, thousands of construction workers are injured in scaffolding accidents. Many accidents that can be prevented, according to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA), if employers complied with OSHA standards for scaffolding.

Recently, three people were hurt at a construction site in Kansas City when scaffolding collapsed onto a small roof. 

Scaffoldings are temporary structures that are built to help workers reach surfaces that they cannot reach. They are more efficient than ladders, and provide a platform for the worker to stand on.

If you are a construction worker, or know a construction worker using scaffolding, make sure the company is following these OSHA rules on scaffolding:

• Scaffolding must be provided for any worker doing work that cannot be performed from the ground, except in cases where a ladder is allowed.
• The footing or anchorage for scaffolds must be sound, rigid, and capable of carrying the maximum intended load without settling or displacement. Unstable objects should not be used to support scaffolds or planks.
• Scaffolds and their components must be able to support at least four times the maximum intended load without failure and should not be loaded in excess of the working load for which they are intended.
• Scaffolds must be maintained in safe condition.
• Scaffolds should not be altered or moved horizontally while they are in use.
• The scaffolding must be inspected for visible defects before every work shift and after any event that may affect the integrity of the scaffolding.
• Any scaffold damaged or weakened from any cause should be immediately repaired and not used until repairs have been completed.
• Workers should not be using scaffolding during storms or windy weather.
• Every employee that works on scaffolding must have safety training in procedures to minimize the hazards of the job.

If you have suffered an injury caused by a Kansas City scaffolding accident, the Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys may be able to help you recover compensation for your lost wages and medical bills. To learn more call our office at 1-888-348-2616 to schedule a free initial consultation with a Missouri work injury attorney. And don’t forget to request our free book, “How to Avoid Becoming a Work Injury Horror Story.”