Working as part of a construction crew on Georgia highways and bridges is hazardous, and workers rely on their employers to properly evaluate work environments for potential safety hazards. Many workplace injuries can be prevented if all safety regulations are followed. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration launched an investigation into an incident in which a worker fell from a bridge that is under construction.
It was reported that the man is employed by a company that paints and sandblasts bridges. The workplace accident reportedly happened earlier this month on Highway 53 on the Lake Lanier Bridge. The repairs project involves resurfacing and painting along with replacement, installation and repairs of internal parts to the bridge.
The worker landed in the safety netting 12 feet below the bridge. Emergency workers had to use rescue rigging to get the injured man placed in a basket before hoisting him up to the roadway for transportation to the hospital. Although his injuries were apparently non-life-threatening, he was reported to be in a serious condition upon admittance to the hospital.
This Georgia man is expected to recover fully after suffering workplace injuries, but he may be unable to return to work for a significant time. High medical costs may jeopardize his financial stability, and he may find comfort in knowing that relief may be pursued through the workers’ compensation insurance program. Along with coverage of medical expenses, an injured victim may also be awarded compensation for lost wages. This financial package is typically based on the income level of the worker at the time of the accident.
Source: forsythnews.com, “OSHA investigating worker’s fall at Dawsonville Highway bridge”, Jeff Gill, March 15, 2016