How demolition injury may be a construction accident

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Construction accidents, youclaim.co.uk

Risks of construction accidents in demolition


It is one of the peculiar ironies of the industry that the risks of a construction accident are considered to be high in the demolition sector; while it is common sense that knocking down a building may create risks of personal injury, it is less obvious that the destruction of a building should be thought of as part of construction.

Of course, some large building contracts occur on land where there is a structure already built, and these must be taken down before the new building can begin. On a smaller scale, demolition techniques may be used on specific areas of a building if renovation or remodelling is being performed.

The first of the common-sense building site accidents that would spring to mind is likely to be flying objects, such as bricks and wrecking balls, colliding with workers. Sometimes these accidents can involve members of the public, such as the American case from 2007 in which a demolition crew accidentally lost their wrecking ball while taking down a Pennsylvania church at the top of a hill; three people suffered personal injury from the careering ball, and many more narrowly escaped.

Other obvious industrial accident risks include slip and trip accidents, falls from height and personal injury from the equipment used in the process of demolition. However, there are further risks, such as exposure to equipment or substances that can lead to industrial diseases such as vibration white finger, asbestosis or mesothelioma.

The firm in charge of the demolition project should have undertaken a risk assessment as part of its management, and acted upon any necessary actions, such as training of staff, to ensure that these risks are as small as possible.

Claiming compensation if a construction accident occurs
If you have suffered personal injury in a demolition accident, and you feel that this is not your fault, then you may have the right to claim work accident compensation. YouClaim's advisors are available to discuss the details of your case, and can help you find the right no win, no fee solicitor for your needs.

The representation provided by a YouClaim solicitor is available on a free basis, from advice to the conclusion of the case. You are protected from our fees, your opponent's fees, and any other costs that arise in the handling of the personal injury claim. We also guarantee you 100 percent compensation in a won case - every penny awarded goes to you, and we take no cut.

Call for advice, on 0800 10 757 95, and we'll do everything we can to help. Alternatively, complete an online claim form, request a callback at a time of your choice, or chat to us online. We'll look forward to helping you claim the compensation you deserve for your construction accident.

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