New York Scaffolding Accident Statistics

New York State Increase in Construction Worker Deaths Continues

New York City is known globally for its impressive buildings, iconic skyline, and the extensive scaffolding that surrounds much of the city. While these structures are often seen as a symbol of constant growth and maintenance, they are also a reminder of the serious dangers construction workers face every day.

Tragically, as construction activity increases, the number of fatal construction accidents in New York State continues to rise, particularly those involving falls from scaffolding. When worker safety is not treated as a top priority, job-site accidents can result in loss of life, permanent disability, and devastating financial consequences for workers and their families.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 65% of construction workers regularly perform tasks on scaffolds. OSHA estimates that strict adherence to scaffold safety regulations could prevent 4,500 injuries and 50 deaths each year nationwide, while saving employers nearly $90 million annually in lost productivity.

What’s Up With All the Scaffolding in New York City?

Many people ask, why scaffolding seems to cover so many buildings year-round. The answer lies in a combination of factors, including aging buildings, frequent renovations, and strict city safety and façade inspection requirements.

New York City law requires regular inspections and repairs of building exteriors to protect pedestrians from falling debris. While these regulations are essential for public safety, they also mean that scaffolding is constantly being erected—placing thousands of workers at elevation and increasing the risk of serious accidents if safety rules are ignored.

The New York Scaffold Safety Law (Labor Law 240)

In March 2021, the New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health (NYCOSH) released a report titled Deadly Skyline: An Annual Report on Construction Fatalities in New York State. One of the report’s key recommendations was the continued enforcement of New York’s Scaffold Safety Law, also known as Labor Law 240.

What Is the New Scaffolding Law in NYC?

Many workers and property owners ask, what is the new scaffolding law in NYC. While Labor Law 240 has existed for decades, recent enforcement efforts and court decisions have reinforced its importance and scope.

This law requires construction sites to be built, equipped, and operated in a manner that protects workers from gravity-related hazards. Property owners, general contractors, and subcontractors are legally responsible for ensuring that proper safety equipment is provided and used.

This includes:

• Regular inspection and maintenance of ladders, harnesses, hoists, and guardrails
• Secure and stable scaffold construction
• Daily inspection of scaffolding materials, pins, and platforms
• Proper worker training and fall protection

Who Can Be Held Liable Under New York Labor Law 240?

Labor Law 240 gives injured construction workers—and the families of workers killed in scaffold accidents—the right to file a lawsuit against negligent property owners and contractors when safety failures lead to injury or death.

Falls From Scaffolds Represent What Percentage of Fall Fatalities?

Falls remain the leading cause of construction-related deaths across New York State. Over the past decade, falls accounted for 48% of construction fatalities, surging to 68% in 2018 alone.

Overall construction deaths increased by 10% in 2019, showing a troubling upward trend.

Importantly:

• Falls from scaffolds represent approximately 25% of all construction fatalities in New York
• Falls from scaffolds represent a significant percentage of all fall fatalities statewide
• 90% of fatal scaffold accidents investigated by OSHA involved at least one serious safety violation

These violations most commonly involve:

• Scaffold safety standard violations
• Inadequate training
• Failure to provide proper fall protection

OSHA Findings on Scaffold Safety Violations

OSHA investigations reveal that 90% of fatal scaffolding accidents involve at least one major safety violation. The most common violations include failures to comply with scaffold safety standards, inadequate training, and lack of proper fall protection.

What Are the Main Causes of Deaths and Injuries on Scaffolds?

One of the most common questions is: what is the number one accident on scaffolding?
The answer is clear—falls from height are the leading cause of death and serious injury on scaffolds.

Main Causes of Death and Injuries on Scaffolds

Common and dangerous scaffold hazards include:

• Slippery or unstable platforms
• Missing guardrails or toe boards
• Falling tools, debris, or construction materials
• Scaffold collapses caused by broken or missing pins
• Defective or unsecured platform planks
• Overloaded scaffolds tipping over
• Workers climbing scaffolds without proper ladder access

These hazards explain the main causes of deaths and injuries on scaffolds and underscore why strict enforcement of safety laws is essential.

Common Injuries Caused by Scaffolding Accidents

Scaffolding accidents frequently result in catastrophic injuries, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Broken bones and complex fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Spinal cord injuries
• Partial or permanent paralysis

Serious and Life-Altering Injuries From Scaffold Falls

KDLM has represented many construction workers who suffered head injuries, traumatic brain injuries, internal organ damage, and broken bones—often while also coping with severe financial and personal hardship.

Scaffolding Falls, Crane Accidents, and More: Navigating NYC Construction Injury Claims

Construction sites in New York City pose many risks beyond scaffolding. Workers often ask, why did the crane collapse in NYC, particularly after high-profile crane accidents make headlines. These incidents are frequently caused by negligence, improper maintenance, or failure to follow safety regulations—similar issues that lead to scaffolding accidents.

Navigating NYC construction injury claims requires a thorough understanding of Labor Law 240, OSHA regulations, and the legal responsibilities of property owners and contractors.

$25 Million Recovery Under New York’s Scaffolding Law

KDLM recovered $25,000,000 for a 55-year-old Westchester man who suffered a traumatic brain injury when a structure collapsed during a demolition and construction project. Liability was established as a matter of law against the property owner under New York’s Scaffolding Law.

Holding Negligent Contractors Accountable for Scaffold Accidents

Builders and subcontractors who cut corners and place workers and pedestrians at risk must be held accountable. Scaffold safety is not optional—it is required by law.

Speak With a New York Scaffolding Accident Attorney Today

If you were injured in a scaffolding-related accident, or lost a loved one due to unsafe construction conditions, contact KDLM today at (212) 618-6800 to discuss your case and legal options. You can also reach out to our New York personal injury lawyers online to schedule a free initial consultation.