Gorayeb & Associates Raises Alarm Over Surge in Electrocution Deaths in NYC Construction Sites
Gorayeb & Associates Raises Alarm Over Surge in Electrocution Deaths in NYC Construction Sites
A Dismaying Trend
In a sobering announcement, Gorayeb & Associates, P.C., a prominent law firm advocating for injured construction workers in New York, has raised serious concerns regarding the alarming increase in electrocution fatalities on construction sites. Drawing on data from the Construction Research and Training Centre, the firm revealed that the annual number of electrocution deaths has surged nearly double, from about 150 cases in 2003 to an estimated 300 today.
This significant rise in fatalities has triggered a call to action from Christopher J. Gorayeb, the founding partner of the firm. He emphasizes that electrocution remains one of the most preventable causes of death within this demanding industry.
"Every electrical accident that leads to a fatality underscores a failure to adhere to proper safety protocols, a deficiency in risk identification, and a disregard for OSHA standards," he stated. "These are cherished family members, where lives are irrevocably altered due to negligence."
Understanding the Hazards
Construction workers are regularly exposed to various electrical risks, including live overhead power lines, defective equipment, and improper wiring. The leading causes of electrocution arise from issues such as:
- - Unannounced proximity to power lines
- - Faulty or inadequately maintained electrical tools
- - Failure to borrow insulation on power equipment
- - Wet conditions coupled with electrical hazards
- - Poor excavation standards leading to underground cable hits
- - Overloaded circuits without adequate circuit breakers
Gorayeb has stressed that New York already stipulates specific laws requiring construction employers to take appropriate measures to safeguard their workers. These include identifying voltage levels before initiating work, displaying warning signs near electrical hazards, and utilizing insulated gear for workers. Notably, employers are mandated to notify utility companies a minimum of five days before any work near power lines commences.
The Consequences of Inaction
Ignoring these obligations can lead to severe repercussions. Workers who encounter electric shocks or electrocution typically endure critical injuries, including substantial burns, broken bones, nerve damages, cardiac issues, hearing or vision impairments, and permanent disabilities. Gorayeb urges all injured workers to seek prompt medical assistance, even for seemingly minor injuries. They should document their injuries with photographic evidence, maintain detailed medical records, and engage a qualified construction accident attorney to safeguard their rights and maximize compensation.
Having successfully represented over 12,000 clients and acquired groundbreaking verdicts, including a notable $15 million settlement for a worker injured due to inadequate OSHA protections, Gorayeb & Associates continues to advocate for stronger employer responsibility. The firm provides comprehensive legal services, including bilingual assistance, and frequently organizes 'Know Your Rights' educational sessions in the Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn, and Manhattan. This initiative aims to ensure workers are informed about their safety rights under New York law.
The Call for Accountability
This call for a more responsible and safety-driven work environment stems from a dire need to protect workers who risk their lives daily in fast-paced and often perilous settings. Gorayeb's message is clear: ignoring safety standards is not just an oversight; it represents a formidable threat to the lives of hardworking individuals.
As the data shows, the increase in electrocution deaths is a critical issue that demands immediate and continuous attention. Without concerted efforts from employers and robust enforcement of safety standards, the construction industry may continue to face unnecessary tragedies that could have otherwise been avoided.
It is time for stakeholders in the construction sector to collaborate diligently, ensuring that safety is prioritized above all else. The lives of countless workers depend on decisive action to prevent further tragedy.
Topics People & Culture）
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