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Indianapolis Star
4 days ago
- Indianapolis Star
Markhoff & Mittman P.C. Brooklyn Construction Injury Lawyer Commentary on Trench Related Accidents
Brooklyn, NY – Markhoff & Mittman P.C., a prominent construction accident law firm, is issuing an urgent safety alert regarding trench work hazards following a recent workplace accident in the area. The firm's attorneys are calling for enhanced safety measures and stricter adherence to OSHA protocols to address the silent threat that trench work poses to construction workers throughout the region. Trenches are ubiquitous in construction, serving as crucial elements in various projects from utility installations to foundation work. However, their commonplace nature belies the severe dangers they pose. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) consistently ranks trench collapses among the most lethal accidents in construction, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. The primary threats facing workers in trench environments include cave-ins, which represent the most notorious danger as they can bury workers alive in seconds, leading to suffocation or crushing injuries. Workers can easily lose their footing and fall into trenches, risking severe injuries from the impact. Trenches can accumulate toxic gases or lack sufficient oxygen, creating an invisible yet deadly environment for workers. Additionally, heavy machinery operating near trench edges can cause soil instability or accidentally strike workers below. In April, the local construction community was jolted by a stark reminder of these dangers when a construction worker engaged in trench excavation suffered a severe leg injury after losing his footing and falling. This incident underscores the ever-present risks and the critical need for stringent safety protocols on construction sites. Brian Mittman, a leading attorney at Markhoff & Mittman, offered his perspective on the accident, stating, 'This unfortunate event serves as a grim reminder of the inherent risks in trench work. Construction companies must prioritize worker safety by rigorously implementing and adhering to OSHA guidelines. Proper training, regular inspections, and the use of protective systems like trench boxes are not just recommendations – they are lifesaving necessities.' The firm emphasizes that preventing trench-related accidents requires comprehensive safety measures. All workers must receive thorough training in trench safety protocols, with competent supervisors appointed who are well-versed in hazard recognition and mitigation. Construction companies should implement trench boxes, shoring, or other OSHA-approved protective systems, regularly inspecting and maintaining these systems to ensure optimal functionality. Daily trench inspections must be conducted by qualified personnel, with any identified hazards addressed immediately before work commences. Companies should install sturdy ladders, ramps, or stairs for safe trench access, ensuring these points are clearly marked and free from obstructions. Workers must be trained to maintain constant awareness of their surroundings, with clear communication protocols implemented for equipment operators and ground workers. When preventative measures fail and accidents occur, legal avenues exist to protect workers' rights and ensure just compensation. Markhoff & Mittman stands ready to advocate for injured workers, ensuring they receive the support and compensation they deserve. 'Workplace safety is not negotiable,' asserts Brian Mittman. 'When employers fail to provide a safe working environment, they must be held accountable. Markhoff & Mittman is dedicated to ensuring that injured workers receive full compensation and that their rights are vigorously protected.' The hidden dangers of trench work in construction represent a sobering reality that demands immediate and ongoing attention. The firm calls upon construction companies, safety regulators, and workers to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing these risks. Markhoff & Mittman is a prominent construction accident law firm located in Brooklyn, NY, dedicated to representing individuals who have been injured on construction sites. With a deep understanding of the complexities and dangers inherent in construction work, the firm focuses on providing personalized and expert legal counsel to help clients navigate the challenging aftermath of workplace accidents. Their experienced attorneys are well-versed in New York's labor laws and OSHA regulations, ensuring that their clients receive the most comprehensive legal representation possible. The attorneys at Markhoff & Mittman understand that construction accidents can result in severe injuries, significant medical expenses, and loss of income. They work diligently to investigate each case thoroughly, gathering crucial evidence and working with industry experts to build a strong case for their clients. Whether the injury was due to falls, equipment failures, or safety violations, the firm is committed to holding the responsible parties accountable and securing the maximum compensation for their clients to cover medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages. Markhoff & Mittman prides itself on its client-focused approach, offering compassionate support and clear communication throughout the legal process. The firm recognizes the physical and emotional toll that construction accidents can take on victims and their families and strives to provide not only legal assistance but also the personal attention needed during such challenging times. Their dedication to justice and their extensive experience in handling construction accident cases make Markhoff & Mittman a trusted ally for injured workers seeking rightful compensation in Brooklyn and beyond. The post Markhoff & Mittman P.C. Brooklyn Construction Injury Lawyer Commentary on Trench Related Accidents appeared first on DA80 Hub.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Yahoo
Kristana Mobile Home Park residents say vacant homes are being torn down, company says otherwise
DEWITT TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WLNS) — People living at the mostly-empty Kristana Mobile Home Park say a company, Capitol Mobile Home, began tearing down vacant homes in the lot without a permit last Thursday, but the company says that isn't the case. Kristana Mobile Home Park has not been licensed to operate in the state of Michigan since 2023, and closed in April. , has asked the remaining residents to leave and even offered incentives for them to go. Now, residents say demolition efforts have begun. 'They literally started ripping the aluminum cladding off the outside of the trailer,' said Nathan Babcock, a resident of the park. The owner of Capitol Mobile Home, Mike Ranke, says that's not what they're doing. 'We did not tear any of the homes down or start any demo,' said Ranke. 'We opened up one of the trailers to find to get samples of lead and asbestos testing, which then gets submitted with a demo permit.' However, residents 6 News spoke with say differently. 'They tore stuff up on a trailer up by the roads. So, they've already started tearing stuff down,' said resident Tina Riggs. State Rep. Dievendorf responds to mobile home park eviction 'They're doing it without a permit when they know they're in violation of laws,' said resident Jason Eldridge. Ranke says the township was aware of their testing processs. 'I was in communication with them, and they knew that there was no demo-ing going on. So, therefore, we did not need a permit,' said Ranke. While Ranke claims they didn't need a permit to get their samples, he admits his workers went a bit overboard. 'We're not backing down' Kristana Mobile Village residents say they aren't leaving 'My guys went a little bit farther than I said,' said Ranke. 'They cease and desist. The township guy gave me a call and said, 'Hey, I'm gonna do this. You know, we gotta follow legality ends.' I said, 'Nope. I understand.'' Eldridge says one of the homes that was torn into is a health hazard. 'It's riddled with black mold, and the individuals working on the home did not have any OSHA-approved protection equipment for dealing with such a thing,' said Eldridge. NAACP Lansing calls on local leaders to intervene in 'inhumane' eviction Ranke said there was no black mold in the home. 6 New has reached out to the owner of the park, Ara Darakjian, who replied via written statement. 'When we acquired the Kristana community from receivership, it had been neglected for years to the point that redevelopment is the only sustainable option. Our contractor was inspecting abandoned trailers in preparation for an eventual demolition of the property, but that will not happen without obtaining the appropriate permits, and certainly not while there are still residents living here. It's important that we ensure that the two remaining households find new homes before any work is started.' Ara Darakjian, written statement, May 13, 2025. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
