It’s been a bad month for construction accidents in the greater Boston area. Last week, a temporary construction barrier was blown over by high winds in Malden, pinning five people until witnesses were able to free them. Earlier this month, a worker was injured in the North End when the scaffolding he was standing on collapsed. Now this week, a 36-year-old worker was struck in the head when a portion of a 600-pound cinder block wall collapsed during a remodeling job. Contact a Boston Injury Lawyer Today.
The accident, which occurred around 7:40 a.m. on Tuesday morning, is under investigation by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The victim, whose identity has not been released, was standing on a scissor lift platform approximately six to eight feet off the ground when a cinder block wall gave way, crushing him with heavy debris. According to Stoughton Fire Chief Doug Campbell, he was rushed to a Boston trauma hospital by medical helicopter. His condition is currently unknown.
Scissor Lift May Have Saved Worker’s Life
The railings of the scissor lift may have saved his life, protecting him from much of the falling debris. “The piece of material actually stayed on top of the railings,” said Campbell, who pointed out that the positioning of the material also gave rescuers easy access to free the victim. According to Campbell, other workers on the job were able to lower the lift and stabilize their co-worker until emergency responders arrived.
When EMTs arrived to the construction site on Schuman Ave., the victim was conscious and alert, but reported having no feeling from the chest down. A MedFlight helicopter was immediately called to the scene. No further details have been released.
Always Use Caution Near Construction Sites
This recent string of construction-related accidents serves as a grim reminder that heavy equipment, temporary structures, and falling debris pose a risk to workers and passers-by alike. Although construction workers have a significantly higher risk of being seriously injured in these types of accidents, people living in, working in, and visiting the city are also at risk. Scaffolding, temporary walls, and construction equipment have become as commonplace in Boston as Starbucks. It’s important to use extreme caution when walking through temporary structures, under scaffolding, and near any type of heavy equipment or machinery.
Altman & Altman, LLP – Boston’s Premier Injury Law Firm
If you have been injured in any type of accident, the personal injury team at Altman & Altman, LLP can help you understand your rights and options. Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents, slip and fall accidents, faulty products, and the negligence of another person, business, or property owner can all cause serious injuries and even death. If your injuries are suffered on-the-job, you are typically covered by workers’ compensation. However, if those injuries were due to negligence on the part of your employer, a contractor, or a third-party vendor, you may be entitled to additional compensation. Fighting to protect your rights and your well-being is not selfish. If you’ve been injured, you may quickly become overwhelmed by medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. These costs, and the injuries themselves, can also take an emotional toll. Don’t go through this alone. Contact a Massachusetts Workers Compensation Lawyer today for a free consultation about your case.