A surveyor was called by the General Contractor to set grade stakes on and around a condominium developement. Ventillation shafts around the complex were an ongoing source of subcontractor complaints ignored by the General Contractor. The shafts were covered and used to walk on, eat lunch, and saw on. The were sporadically inspected by the General Contractor. The surveyor stepped on one to make a mark and fell 21′ breaking both legs and ankle and receiving a permanent disability. He was unable to work for over a year. The General Contractor paid $2,000,000 in a civil court award to settle the case.
Floor openings must meet the “Three S’s” CalOsha requirements:
“S”ecured: The covering was be secured to prevent displacement.
“S”tenciled: The covering must be stenciled to read “Covering…”
“S“upport: The covering must support 2 men or 400 pounds.
If you are familiar with this case or any similar case then please contact this office.
