In New York labor Law, scaffolding is a very prominent part of the combined statutes that protect workers. Scaffolding has a central relevance for a reason, and that’s because in a city with extremely tall buildings, the idea of workers having to travel to great heights involves its own risks and liabilities.
There’s some controversy about New York scaffolding laws, but in general, these laws exist to look out for those who do the tough work of maintaining and constructing buildings far above the ground.
As part of the thorough statute, New York labor law defines various types of scaffolds in detail. Here are some of the provisions and definitions that may factor into a New York City construction accident and the ensuing legal process of moving a personal injury claim forward.
- Ladder Jack Scaffold: New York labor law defines a ladder jack scaffold as a scaffold where the platform is supported by “brackets or jacks” that are on the side rails of the ladders.
Rule: Ladder jack scaffolds can only be used as light-duty scaffolds with a specific weight limit. They should not stand more than 20 feet above the floor and ladders must be designed in specific ways to serve as scaffolding infrastructure. Other rules address the fastening of ladders to the scaffolding, the size of platform planks, and spans between supports.
- Light-Duty Scaffold: This is a light-duty scaffold that is designed to carry a maximum load of 25 pounds per square foot. It is commonly used to support one person, such as a carpenter or painter.
Rule: Light-duty scaffolds have a maximum weight limit of 25 pounds per square foot.
- Medium-Duty Scaffold: Medium-duty scaffolds are designed to support a maximum load of 50 pounds per square foot.
Rule: As with light-duty scaffolds, New York labor law applies a weight limit for the medium-duty scaffold, which in this case is 50 pounds per square foot.
- Bricklayer’s Square Scaffold: This type of scaffold is made of planks that are supported by squares of hard material and use diagonal bracing for additional structural support.
Rule: The bricklayer’s square scaffold cannot be used as a heavy-duty scaffold.
- Outrigger Scaffold: This type of scaffold is built on ‘outriggers’ or protruding objects built into a wall or into the exterior face of a building.
Rule: New York labor Law sets minimum sizes of 2″ x 10″ for outriggers which may not be spaced more than eight feet apart. Other rules involve the anchoring of outrigger beams, fulcrum points and other design elements.
In evaluating a work injury case, a New York personal injury lawyer may identify one or more of these types of scaffolding and consider the applicable portion of New York labor Law. By using federal, state and local law, as well as case precedent, these lawyers help their clients to take advantage of all of their legal options in local courts.
New York City Construction Accident Lawyers Can Help
New York workers harmed in construction accidents can call the law offices of Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff & Wolff. Our injury lawyers have experience working on personal injury and wrongful death cases within the state of New York and are dedicated to helping clients understand all of their legal options and rights. Let us evaluate your New York personal injury claim.
