Workers in New York City are likely aware of the Workers’ Memorial Day. The day, celebrated on April 28th, is designed to pay tribute to those who have lost their lives due to on-the-job accidents. The New York Times recently ran a piece on this holiday, focusing on the annual Mass designed to show appreciation to those in the construction trade. The holiday is particularly noteworthy this year, as the construction industry in New York City appears to be growing riskier.
The construction trade in New York is booming. The city is growing and jobs are more readily available for workers than they have been in years. With this increased demand comes increased risk. There were 472 reported injuries in 2015 in New York, twice as many as those reported in 2014 and a drastic jump when compared to the 121 reported in 2007. Some argue the jump is due to increased rigor in inspections, resulting in the reporting of accidents that would otherwise go unnoted. Others counter that the majority of injuries and deaths are from nonunion jobs; jobs that are more likely to violate safety regulations and put workers at greater risk.
Although Workers’ Memorial Day celebrates the lives of those lost, it also signifies a moment for those who are in a position to protect workers to recommit themselves to workers’ safety. Those who do not provide workers with safe working environments can be held accountable for their actions. Remedies are available to victims. Contact an experienced construction site accident lawyer to discuss your options.
