A barn frame at the new Texas A&M equestrian complex collapsed on June 23, 2013, leaving four construction workers seriously injured.  The workers were working on the metal frame of the barn with overhead lifts, bolting the steel beams together.  The frame collapsed, and the men landed on top of the debris and fallen equipment.  If the equipment and the structure had collapsed atop the workers, there would have undoubtedly been fatalities.

Search and rescue efforts for the men had to be temporarily suspended until the rest of the barn frame could be secured by cranes in order to prevent further collapse and injuries.

The construction industry is one of the most dangerous industrial industries, accounting for the majority of industrial accidents and fatalities.  Both employers are employees have a role to play in construction workplace safety.  Employers must make safety a priority, despite the fact that this usually requires a financial investment.  Equipment must be regularly checked and maintained.  Employees must be trained on how to use equipment safely, and on how to perform each task.  Employees themselves must commit to following safety protocols without fail, thereby protecting their own safety and the safety of their co-workers.

Despite safety precautions, accidents still undoubtedly occur.  At any moment, a construction site can collapse, equipment can malfunction, or a worker can act negligently.  If you have been injured in an industrial accidents, the attorneys at Kirkendall Dwyer LLP can help.  Contact us for a free case review today.