Construction accident takes one life, injures another

Construction work of all types goes on all the time in places like New York. Construction projects are so common, in fact, that many people don’t even notice work is being done. However, construction workers always have to stay alert and focused on the job to ensure they comply with life-saving safety standards at all times. In the event that equipment malfunctions or human error prevails, construction workers are at risk of being involved in a major construction accident. One tragic accident may serve as a sobering example of how improper equipment placement and use can result in tragedy.

The deadly mall construction accident occurred in Bethesda, Maryland, in late spring of this year when a jacking tower apparently malfunctioned, causing the death of one construction worker. Upon investigation of the incident, it was determined that construction workers were attempting to move a beam using a jack system when the tower failed. The beam is reported to have fallen, causing serious injuries to one worker and killing the other. The fatal equipment malfunction is attributed to the fact that workers did not properly brace the extended sections of the jack tower and the scaffolding equipment was extended too far.

The results of the accident investigation suggest that human error contributed to the incident. Though, it’s not stated who, if anyone will be held responsible for making the apparently avoidable mistakes. It’s also not known what legal actions may be taken on behalf of the accident victims, or what impact the results of the investigation might have on potential personal injury suits.

Source: wjla.com, “Westfield Montgomery Mall construction accident due to malfunctioning jack,” Sep. 24, 2013