The collapse of a 43,000-pound slab of concrete at a Maryland mall is blamed for the death of one construction worker and serious injuries to another. From a report prepared by a group of structural engineers called into investigate the matter, it remains unclear if the collapse came about because of a jack malfunctioning or because of scaffolding extending beyond manufacturing recommendations. Apparently a set of conditions did may have at least triggered how the accident occurred.
This construction accident occurred while renovation was taking place at the parking garage at the mall. The slab of concrete in question was placed upon some scaffolding shortly before the work crew went on break. However, a portion of the steel support reportedly partially buckled. While attempting to jack up the slab it then fell approximately 18 inches subsequently crushing one of the workers to death.
There had been prior problems regarding a number of the jacks used by the workers. There was also talk about towers used to support the jacks not being properly centered causing the jacks to be improperly aligned. In any case, the Maryland Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation will be continuing its investigation into this incident.
Attorneys experienced in trying worker-related injury cases generally have the kind of resources required to figure out how such an accident occurred. These attorneys can also provide independent representation for victims and family members to make certain that compensation is adequate.
Like so many work-related accidents, this one seems to have had a number of possible causes. As it is often difficult to figure out precisely what has occurred when workers are injured, it is essential that any investigation into the matter be conducted carefully.