Did You Know: Labor Law §240 Protects Workers Who Fall from Heights

Imagine you are working on a ladder on the second-to-last rung, trusting that you were provided with a safe ladder to use. Suddenly, the rung you are standing on breaks and gives way, and in an instant your life is changed forever. Fortunately, New York’s Labor Law §240 is designed to protect workers in exactly this situation and others.

What is Labor Law §240?

Labor Law §240 is a critical piece of New York legislation that protects construction workers from fall-related injuries. The law requires property owners and general contractors to provide

appropriate safety measures to prevent fall-related accidents from occurring and, in turn, injuries to construction workers.

Who Is Covered Under Labor Law §240?

Although Labor Law §240 is sometimes referred to as the “Scaffold Law”, it protects construction workers working at heights on ladders as well (amongst other devices and/or structures) and protects workers from falling objects as well. Labor Law §240 also covers a broad range of work activities, including but not limited to erection, repairing, and altering, which means that workers in various trades – for example, plumbing, painting, and carpentry, amongst many others – may be covered under this law and enjoy its protections.

Benefits of Labor Law §240

Labor Law §240 provides workers with legal recourse against property owners* and contractors who fail to ensure their safety. Holding these parties accountable in court not only has the potential benefit of providing injured workers with the financial support they need during a difficult period of time in their lives, but it may also lead property owners and contractors to improve worker safety and prioritize safety measures.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to a fall from a height or by a falling object at a construction site, do not hesitate to contact Farber Balsam Papain Ferrari LLP for a consultation. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Visit our website at www.newyorktrial.com or call us at (212) 972-7040.

* Labor Law §240 does not apply to “owners of one and two-family dwellings who contract for

but do not direct or control the work”.