Minnesota residents employed in the construction industry know that they work in dangerous settings. From transportation accidents to equipment failures and more, there are several things that put construction workers in harm’s way on a daily basis. Employers are required by law to follow specific safety rules in order to keep employees safe and protected while doing their jobs. When those rules are not followed, investigations may lead to consequences for employers.
In the summer of 2015, a 35-year-old man employed by a roofing company fell to his death while working on the new Minnesota Vikings football stadium. The roofing company was a subcontractor to the general contractor on the job. After the accident, an investigation was launched and the results of that investigation were recently announced. Both the primary contractor and the roofing subcontractor were found guilty of some violations.
The general contracting company was cited for one violation and the roofing company was cited for three serious violations. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, the setting in which the man was working should have featured two guardrails.
Situations like the tragic accident at the stadium highlight the importance of taking action when on-the-job accidents happen. Minnesota employers should be held responsible for keeping employees safe while on the job. Talking to an attorney after an accident happens may help to give ideas on how workers or their family members may seek compensation in these situations.
Source: Finance & Commece, “‘Inadequate fall protection’ cited in stadium fatality,” Brian Johnson, Dec. 8, 2016
