The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) dedicates itself to providing safe environments for workers. In Arizona, construction opportunities can also mean the potential for accidents. Being safe on the job is important, but sometimes an injury is unavoidable. If you are injured on the job, it is important to seek medical advice. You should be compensated for an injury and be able to pay your bills through workers’ compensation. The federal government may take over some aspects of workers safety in Arizona.
OSHA sent a letter to the Industrial Commission of Arizona stating that it could potentially take control of workers’ safety in the residential construction industry. The letter stated that OSHA standards for a net, harness or guardrail to be put in place for potential falls over 6 feet were not being adhered to. The Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health helps to enforce safety in Arizona and is overseen by the Industrial Commission of Arizona.
A 2012 Arizona state law requires protection for workers with a potential 15-foot fall, which is greater than the 6-foot fall demanded by OSHA. If you are hurt in a similar type of fall, your biggest concern is getting better. A significant injury can mean time in the hospital and rehabilitation. If you miss work, you are entitled to workers’ compensation. Filing a claim can be onerous, as Arizona law is constantly debated for change.
Being hurt is difficult, especially in a climate where it can be uncertain who is responsible. As OSHA has demonstrated, the nature of worker safety can come down to territorial battles over state and federal government. An injured worker needs help as soon as possible. Finding compensation can help you pay for lost wages and get you the support you need.
Source: KTAR News, “OSHA: Arizona law fails to protect residential construction workers,” Moriah Costa, Mar. 22, 2014
