subject: Serious Construction Injuries: Crane Accidents [print this page] One of the most serious types of accidents that can happen at a construction site in Illinois is a crane accident in Chicago. In a city bustling with activity and continuous construction projects, the risk of injury is high. Not only can the operator of a crane be injured but so can individuals who happen to be walking or driving near the vicinity of a crane, workers and non-workers alike.
Causes of a Crane Accident in Chicago
Some of the leading causes of serious injuries from a crane accident in Chicago can include:
mechanical failure;
crane overturns;
improperly secured materials; collapse or boom buckling;
improper assembling or dismantling of a crane;
dropped loads;
electrocution;
rigging failure; and
falls (as a result of inadequate or missing netting, barriers or safety harnesses).
Many of those causes are preventable with close supervision, regular maintenance, adequate training and a close adherence to Occupational Safety and Heath Administration (OSHA) standards.
Prevention of a Crane Accident in Chicago
Safety standards and regulations are put in place by OSHA, which helps to prevent construction site accidents in Illinois and nationwide. This includes special regulations for crane operation. If OSHA safety standards and regulations are not followed, catastrophic injury can result.
The employer or contractor who is responsible for crane operations has a duty to make sure that cranes are safely and properly used. If someone is injured in a crane accident in Chicago, the employer may be held liable for violating OSHA standards.
Not only must employers follow OSHA safety standards but they must also comply with the manufacturer's limitations for load capacities, hazard warnings and operating speeds. Manufacturers must also ensure that there are no defects in the crane that could lead to a crane accident in Chicago.
In addition, employers must make sure that workers who operate cranes have adequate training and experience. This means compliance with age regulations, as well. Most crane workers need to be at least 18 years of age and need to receive proper training.
Liability in a Crane Accident in Chicago
There are many circumstances that can lead to serious construction site injuries. There are also a number of parties that could potentially be held liable for a crane accident in Chicago, which could include third parties such as a contractor or the manufacturer if there is a defect in the equipment.
If you have been injured in a crane accident in Chicago, you should consult with an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer to discuss your options for legal recourse.
Copyright (c) 2010 Barry D
by: Barry D
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