News Summary
Recent construction site tragedies in Brooklyn have resulted in the deaths of two workers, raising serious concerns about safety practices. A 44-year-old worker was killed when a metal-framed wall fell from an unauthorized forklift during windy conditions. In a separate incident, another worker was struck by a speeding vehicle while directing traffic. The Department of Buildings has issued stop work orders and calls for improved safety regulations are growing, especially following another crane collapse with no injuries reported but ongoing investigations.
Construction Accidents in Brooklyn Raise Alarms Over Safety Protocols
A troubling series of construction-related incidents in Brooklyn has left two workers dead and raised concerns about safety measures on job sites. One incident involved the death of a 44-year-old construction worker from New Jersey, Over Paredes, who tragically lost his life in a forklift accident last month. The fatality occurred during an operation at a six-story residential building on Myrtle Avenue, where safety protocols were evidently not followed.
The accident took place when a section of a metal-framed wall fell from a manual forklift that was not authorized for use at the construction site. Reports indicate that heavy sheet metal was being lifted by this unauthorized machine, which was not suitable for the load it carried. Compounding the situation was the day’s notably windy weather, which contributed to a powerful gust that caused the forklift to tip over.
Paredes was struck by the falling wall section and succumbed to his injuries at the scene, despite the quick response of emergency medical services. Subsequent investigations by the Department of Buildings revealed that only an engine-powered forklift was approved for use at the site, raising questions about the worker operating the manual version, including their training and qualifications.
Further complicating the tragic circumstances, Paredes’ two sons were present during the incident, suggesting a personal connection that highlights the emotional tragedy of workplace accidents. Witnesses indicated that the manual forklift may have been employed because the crane operator refused to lift the heavy sheet metal with the engine-powered forklift. This refusal seemed to be based on concerns regarding the wind conditions and safety.
Second Incident Involves Fatal Traffic Collision
In a separate incident on the same Myrtle Avenue, another construction worker lost his life when he was struck by a vehicle while directing traffic. The worker, who was 37 years old, was wearing reflective gear and using a flag to manage traffic at a construction site when a truck reportedly sped through the area without exercising due caution. Witnesses have indicated that the vehicle was moving at a high speed and did not adhere to safety protocols in place for work zones.
As the paramedics arrived, they attempted to save the worker, but he was pronounced dead shortly after at Woodhull Medical Center. The driver of the truck, identified as Clyde Mercury, aged 36, has since been charged with criminally negligent homicide due to the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Additional Crane Incident Not Resulting in Injuries
Amid these tragic fatalities, there was also a separate incident in Borough Park where part of a crane collapsed. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from this event. Investigations into this crane collapse are ongoing, focusing on potential damage and safety hazards involved.
In light of these serious incidents, the Department of Buildings has instituted stop work orders on various construction sites across Brooklyn. These actions come as safety protocols are being scrutinized rigorously following the recent fatalities. Officials are pressing for comprehensive reviews to address potential negligence and better ensure worker safety on all construction sites.
Call for Improved Safety Measures
Both accidents underscore a profound need for heightened awareness and improved safety measures in the construction industry. The fatalities have sparked discussions among local leaders and community members about the importance of adhering to established safety protocols to protect workers on construction sites. As investigations into these tragic events continue, the hope remains that no more lives will be lost due to avoidable accidents.
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Additional Resources
- ABC7NY: 37-Year-Old Construction Worker Struck and Killed
- NY Daily News: Man Dies in Brooklyn Shed Roof Collapse
- Legal Examiner: Brooklyn Crane Topples Over
- CBS News: Crane Boom Collapse in Brooklyn
- Construction Dive: Worker Killed in Brooklyn NYC Accident
- Wikipedia: Construction Safety
- Google Search: Brooklyn Construction Accidents
- Google Scholar: Construction Site Safety
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Construction Worker Safety
- Google News: Brooklyn Construction News
