When buildings are constructed in California, there are numerous codes to ensure quality of work and safety for all involved. Unfortunately, despite safety precautions, workplace accidents still occur. Three construction workers in another state were all injured when the building they were constructing collapsed on them.
The building was being converted from a two story to a three story structure. While the men were working, the building collapsed and trapped them in the basement. The initial investigation has not revealed the possible cause of the collapse. Twelve hundred pound beams and cement bags were among the building supplies that crashed onto the workers.
One of the three workers was able to free himself from the building debris prior to emergency personal arriving. Rescue crews were able to quickly remove another victim from the building, and the victim is reportedly still being treated for his injuries. The third victim, a 25-year-old man, was not able to be immediately rescued. As crews worked to uncover him, paramedics were able to crawl in close enough to him to administer intravenous medications for his pain and injuries. Reportedly, the last victim remained conscious throughout the entire rescue process.
Suffering workplace injuries like the victims in this article can result in serious physical and financial consequences. Victims of workplace accidents may experience expensive and lengthy medical treatment, and emotional trauma. On-the-job injuries may also make returning to work difficult or impossible. Fortunately, businesses are required to provide workers’ compensation insurance coverage for employees. Although it is a state-regulated program, it is a difficult and complicated system, but California lawyers with experience in the comp system can aide victims to file claims for the recovery of all applicable benefits.
Source: CBS New York, “Workers Trapped In Astoria Construction Accident“, June 26, 2017