Quick Summary

New York Labor Law 240 (“Scaffold Law”) and 241(6) provide powerful legal protections for construction workers injured due to unsafe elevation-related hazards. These laws apply to workers involved in construction, demolition, repair, alteration, or painting of buildings and structures throughout Putnam County, Westchester County, and the surrounding region.

Here’s what they cover:

• Labor Law 240: Protects workers from elevation-related risks such as falls from ladders or scaffolds and injuries from falling objects.
• Labor Law 241(6): Requires worksites to comply with specific Industrial Code safety rules and covers hazards such as debris, unsafe equipment, unprotected openings, and more.
• Third‑party claims vs. Workers’ Compensation: Workers’ comp provides medical and wage benefits, but claims under Labor Law 240/241(6) allow you to pursue compensation from negligent owners and contractors for pain and suffering, lost earnings, future medical needs, and more.

At Stieglitz & Welch PLLC, based in White Plains and serving construction workers in Carmel, Mahopac, Putnam County, Westchester County, and beyond, we help injured workers understand their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve. Learn more about our construction injury representation on our Construction Accidents page.

What Is NY Labor Law 240 (“Scaffold Law”)?

Labor Law 240 places strict responsibility on owners and contractors to provide proper safety devices—such as scaffolds, ladders, hoists, harnesses, and guardrails—to protect workers from height‑related dangers. If a worker is injured because a safety device was missing, defective, or improperly used, the responsible parties may be held liable.

Common scenarios covered:

• Falls from ladders or scaffolds
• Falls through unprotected openings
• Injuries caused by improperly secured loads
• Tools, debris, or building materials falling from above

What Is NY Labor Law 241(6)?

Labor Law 241(6) requires that all construction sites follow New York State Industrial Code safety rules. Unlike Labor Law 240, this section applies to a wide variety of on‑site hazards—not just elevation risks.

Examples include:

• Trip hazards caused by debris or uneven flooring
• Unsafe power tools or machinery
• Failure to provide protective equipment
• Unprotected trenches or excavations

Workers’ Compensation vs. a Third‑Party Claim

Workers’ compensation covers medical care and partial wage replacement—but it does not cover pain and suffering or full lost earnings. A separate Labor Law claim allows you to seek full compensation from negligent third parties, such as building owners, contractors, or subcontractors.

In many construction accident cases, workers have both a workers’ comp claim and a viable third‑party claim.

What to Save After a Construction Accident

Preserving evidence is critical. Try to save or document:

• The exact ladder, scaffold, or equipment involved
• Photos and videos of the accident scene
• Names and contact information for witnesses
• Your work boots, gear, and clothing at the time of the accident
• Any written reports, texts, or emails about the incident
• Medical records and injury documentation
• Pay stubs or proof of lost work

Serving Construction Workers Across Putnam & Westchester Counties

Stieglitz & Welch PLLC proudly serves clients throughout Putnam County(including Carmel and Mahopac), Westchester County, and communities across the Hudson Valley and New York City. Learn more about our Putnam County services here: Putnam County Location.

Injured in a Construction Accident? We’re Here to Help.

If you’ve been injured in a fall or struck by a falling object—or suffered any construction‑related injury—our firm can help you understand your rights under Labor Law 240 and 241(6). Visit our Personal Injury page or contact us directly to schedule a consultation.

Contact Stieglitz & Welch PLLC:
https://www.sw-firm.com/contact