When construction sites in Maryland don’t follow strict safety regulations, devastating accidents and injuries can occur. Failure to adhere to safety rules is often considered negligence, meaning injured parties may have a valid legal claim. Please continue reading to learn your legal options when a construction site fails to follow safety rules and how our seasoned Prince George’s County Personal Injury Lawyers can help you fight for the compensation you deserve. 

What Safety Rules Apply to Construction Sites?

In Maryland, construction safety is regulated at both the federal and state levels. However, they are primarily mandated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Key OSHA regulations include: 

  • Fall Protection: For any construction activity occurring at an elevation of six feet or more, employers are required to implement protective measures to mitigate fall hazards. 
  • Personal Protective Equipment: Employers are responsible for providing necessary gear, including head protection, eye safety wear, high-visibility vests, and reinforced footwear, and for verifying its consistent use on-site.   
  • Scaffolding and Ladders: All scaffolding must be professionally inspected, structurally sound, and equipped with rails. Ladders must be secured properly, placed on even terrain, and rated for the specific weight of the task. 
  • Electrical Safety: To minimize the risk of re-electrocution, sites must utilize Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) and maintain a rigorous safety buffer from any overhead electrical lines. 
  • Heavy Machinery and Crane Protocol: Lifting operations must be managed by certified operators, subjected to routine technical inspections, and supported by dedicated signal personas ot coordinate movements. 
  • Hazard Communication: Comprehensive labeling for all hazardous substances is mandatory, and workers must be provided with immediate access to updated Safety Data Sheets (SDS). 

These represent only some of the extensive safety protocols construction sites are required to follow. Neglecting these standards can lead to serious accidents and fatalities. 

Who Can Be Held Liable?

If you’ve been injured at a construction site in Maryland, liability may extend to multiple parties depending on the unique circumstances of the accident. The key parties that can be held liable include:

  • General contractors
  • Subcontractors 
  • Property owner
  • Equipment manufacturers
  • Architects and engineers 

Ultimately, liability hinges on the extent of control a party has over the safety protocols implemented. Failure to adhere to strict OSHA safety requirements can result in liability. 

It should be noted that the statute of limitations for a personal injury claim regarding a construction site accident is typically three years from the date of the injury. Failing to file within this allotted timeframe will result in the absolute bar of recovery. 

At Timian & Fawcett, LLC, we are prepared to help protect your rights and hold responsible parties accountable for their negligence. Connect with our firm today to schedule a consultation.