Defective Or Missing Safety Equipment Is A Serious Issue On Construction Sites

Ohio construction workers have certain rights under state and federal law. One of these rights is to work in an environment that is as safe and healthful as possible. Among other things, this means that construction companies are required to provide workers with personal protective equipment whenever it is necessary to help prevent injuries or illnesses.

Such personal protective equipment can range from hard hats, safety glasses and respirators to fall restraints, gloves and earplugs. The exact equipment you need to protect yourself will depend on your particular job duties and work site.

And simply providing you with the safety gear isn’t enough. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), employers are also required to properly train workers on the equipment. This includes training on:

• When you should use the equipment
• What type of protective gear is necessary
• How to put it on and take it off correctly
• How to take care of the gear
• What limitations the equipment has

If you were injured because your employer failed to provide personal protective equipment – or if that equipment was defective in some way – you may have the right to pursue money to cover your accident-related expenses.

In product defect claims (such as those involving poorly manufactured harnesses or flawed respirators), it only makes sense to consult an Ohio attorney who is skilled in construction accidents and personal injury law. He or she can evaluate your case and determine if you may have a case against the equipment manufacturer or designer.

If you do have a valid product liability case, you can pursue personal injury compensation in addition to any workers’ compensation benefits. This has the potential to significantly increase the total amount of money you receive for your injuries.