New York window cleaning accident lawyers at Gorayeb & Associates have recovered over $2 billion for more than 10,000 injured workers across 40+ years of practice. The firm represents window cleaners and high-rise maintenance workers injured in falls from scaffolding, bosun’s chairs, and suspended platforms under New York Labor Law Section 240(1), which imposes absolute liability on building owners for gravity-related injuries. Window cleaning remains one of the most dangerous occupations in New York City, and the firm fights for full compensation for catastrophic fall injuries. Call (212) 267-2100 for a free consultation. Se habla español.
New York law has several provisions that seek to protect workers who clean windows and exterior surfaces of buildings.
Labor Laws
Labor Law § 202 specifically applies to workers who clean windows and the exterior parts of buildings, and Labor Law § 240 (1) applies to workers engaged in “cleaning” a building.
Under Labor Law § 202, owners, lessees, agents, and managers must provide safe means to enable workers to perform these tasks, including providing personal protective devices, harnesses, safety lines, scaffolds, and other appropriate equipment to maximize worker safety and minimize hazards in the dangerous work of window washing.
Labor Law § 240 (1), also known as the “Scaffold Law,” places the responsibility on contractors and site owners to ensure that proper safety practices and equipment are provided, including scaffolding and other safety equipment such as harnesses and lifelines.
It is important to note that it is not the responsibility of the workers. The applicability of these sections and other regulations depends on the type of work being performed and the building itself. For example, Labor Law § 202 does not apply to buildings six stories or less, while Labor Law § 240 (1) does not apply to one- and two-family dwellings.
If you or someone you know has been injured due to an accident while washing windows, you should speak with attorneys who are fully aware of the protections in New York City laws and regulations for workers who clean windows outside of buildings.
If you or someone you know has been injured on a construction site call Gorayeb & Associates at 646-542-1247 for a free consultation.
