During the peak of the construction boom, more accidents and fatalities are taking place in New York. As more incidents continue to contribute to this year’s staggering figures, NY Construction Liability is undoubtedly increased.
Most recently, a 12-ton heating and air conditioning unit broke free from a crane and fell 30 stories to the pavement on Madison Avenue, according to The New York Times. While ten people were hurt, none were killed. However, eight people have already suffered life threatening construction related injuries this year as reported by the Buildings Department. However, only three died in similar accidents for the entirety of 2014.
So, what’s to blame for the spike in accidents and fatalities? Similar to the building boom of 2008, the saturated workload has led to increased liabilities and risks for the construction industry. The more construction, the more threat of injury.
“The more jobs we have, it either means fewer workers doing more work, or more new workers who may not have as much experience or training,” explained Richard Anderson, president of the New York Building Congress.
However, building construction is nowhere near slowing down. Last year, $36 billion was spent on construction projects, while the boom of 2008 only boasted $32 billion. What’s more, an estimated 98,000 building permits were issued in 2014, as opposed to only 74,000 in 2010. Mayor Bill de Blasio is seeking to develop more affordable housing options in the city, which is attributing to the increased permits.
While safety is the number one concern of building development, the proposed budget for the next fiscal year for construction exceeded $148 million, which is a 29 percent increase from its current standings, according to the Times.
The second factor that has been contributing to increased construction related accidents is the type of workers being used. The Times declares that some say that construction unions and contractors that use union labor contend that the rise of cheaper, nonunion labor is to blame.
As Louis J. Coletti, president of the Building Trade Employers’ Association said, “This is the second-most-dangerous job in America after mining, so you need guys who know what they are doing. We have the best training and the best safety standards, period.”
At Provident Protection Plus Insurance Agency, we strive to defend construction companies like yours against the potential perils associated with the industry. Our unique solutions provide comprehensive coverage for each aspect of your business. To learn more, contact our specialists today at (888) 990-0526.