Using an elevator is an everyday thing for many people, whether they live in an apartment complex or work in a multi-floor office. It can be easy to forget that such an everyday convenience can also be a danger, particularly for those responsible for fixing it.
Two construction workers were performing maintenance on an elevator in a hotel last weekend when a work structure they depend on for their safety didn’t live up to its purpose. A scaffolding accident sent the two workers off of the structure and down an elevator shaft.
The workplace accident victims were up a reported four stories, meaning that their fall was quite significant. As a result of the fall, one worker is listed as in critical condition while the other is stable but still suffering from work injuries.
Safety officials are investigating the accident. Though construction work is dangerous, there are safeguards that must be in place to reasonably reduce the risk of an accident like this one. Was the scaffolding up to code? Were the workers properly protected with the required gear that could have prevented a fall or the injuries related to it?
Though the victims’ employer literally was not present at the time of the accident that doesn’t mean that they aren’t possibly responsible for the workers’ injuries. It is a business’ responsibility to provide the proper training and safety equipment for its workers. Not doing so is as threatening as literally pushing its workers down an elevator shaft.
Our Pennsylvania law firm works with victims of workplace accidents. Whether someone was injured in a scaffolding accident, crane collapse, industrial machine accident or other work mishap, we will fight with him to try to get the compensation he needs to move forward.
Source: CNYCentral, “Two construction workers in Ithaca airlifted after a fall down elevator shaft,” Streater Kelley, Jan. 7, 2013