Helping Workers Injured in Ladder Accidents & Scaffolding Collapses
Scaffolding is essential on construction sites, allowing workers to access otherwise unreachable heights. Despite clear OSHA scaffolding guidelines, there are thousands of injuries and dozens of deaths caused by unsafe scaffolding in construction each year—staggering numbers that make scaffolding one of the industry’s leading causes of serious injury and death. Why does this keep happening? Companies rush assembly, skip crucial inspections, or outright ignore safety requirements. Many scaffolds don’t even meet OSHA’s basic standards—clear violations that put workers in harm’s way. These careless mistakes cost lives, and at Arnold & Itkin, we believe no one should pay for an employer’s negligence.
For more insight after a scaffolding collapse or ladder accident, contact our Houston scaffolding accident attorneys at (888) 493-1629. Your consultation is free.
When a young man was severely injured while working on scaffolding at a Lake Charles refinery, his family turned to Arnold & Itkin for help. He had been struck in the head by a 20-pound metal bar, which left him paralyzed and barely verbal—despite the fact that he was wearing a hard hat at the time of the accident.
Our team secured a record $411 million verdict on our client's behalf, helping him and his family access the resources they need for his lifelong care.
Some of our other notable scaffolding and ladder accident results include:
$5.5 million for a man who sustained life-altering injuries in a scaffolding collapse.
$2.7 million for a barge worker injured during a ladder crossing between vessels.
$1.95 million for a deckhand who suffered severe injuries in a ladder fall.
$1.65 million for an offshore worker who was knocked into scaffolding and injured.
$1.4 million for a construction worker who fell due to a faulty scaffold railing.
Scaffolding collapses, ladder falls, and similar incidents have the potential to completely alter the course of a person's life. As Houston scaffolding accident attorneys, we are committed to helping our clients recover the level of compensation that helps them truly rebuild and move forward. The results above are just a few examples of the outcomes we've been able to achieve in this area. If you or someone you love has been injured, we're standing by to help.
What Is Scaffolding?
Scaffolding is a temporary framework that supports workers and materials at elevated heights, allowing for tasks ranging from construction and renovation to maintenance and cleaning. When set up correctly, scaffolding boosts efficiency and safety by offering stable platforms in places that would otherwise be hard to reach. However, hasty assembly, poor planning, or the use of substandard materials can transform this critical safety tool into a life-threatening hazard.
Different worksites—like multi-story buildings, industrial facilities, and even maritime environments—need specialized scaffolds that withstand unique conditions such as high winds, rain, or saltwater exposure. While scaffolding is commonly built with steel or timber, some projects may use leftover scrap materials. Such improvised structures often fall short of safety standards and heighten the risk of collapse.
Where Scaffolding Can Be Found in Houston, TX
In a large and fast-growing city like Houston, scaffolding is a constant presence across a wide range of industries. Downtown high-rises, new mixed-use developments, and apartment complexes often require extensive scaffolding during construction and facade repairs. Industrial sites, including the oil refineries and petrochemical plants that line the Houston Ship Channel, rely on scaffolding for maintenance of towers, tanks, and piping. The Port of Houston itself also sees scaffolding used for ship repairs, cargo terminal maintenance, and dockside infrastructure projects.
Outside of large-scale projects, scaffolding frequently appears at hospitals, universities, stadiums, and other major facilities undergoing renovations or expansions. Even routine maintenance—such as cleaning glass facades, repairing signage, or painting bridges and overpasses—can involve complex scaffold setups.
With Houston's humid climate, heavy storms, and high winds, poorly secured scaffolding in any of these settings can quickly become unstable, putting workers and passersby at risk.
Common Types of Scaffolding
Factors like the project’s working height, required load capacity, and accessibility concerns all play a role in choosing the right type of scaffolding:
Supported Scaffolds Supported scaffolds use rigid supports like beams, brackets, or poles to hold one or more platforms. Variations include ladder jack and pump jack setups for smaller tasks, frame and tube/coupler scaffolding (used for building exteriors or interior fit-outs, thanks to flexibility in height adjustments), and mobile/rolling scaffolds, which are designed with casters for easy relocation. Pole and specialty systems may be used for unique structures where standard frames won’t fit.
Suspended Scaffolds Suspended scaffolds hang from overhead supports using ropes or other flexible systems, making them a favorite for tasks such as window washing on high-rise buildings. Two-point adjustable (swing stage) scaffolds are the most common, featuring a platform suspended by two ropes that’s raised and lowered as needed. Multi-point adjustable, needle beam, and boatswain’s chair setups are designed for specific tasks where precise positioning is crucial.
Aerial Lifts These basket-equipped systems—often called “cherry pickers” or scissor lifts—serve as mobile scaffolding solutions. Workers can maneuver the lift to changing job sites without disassembling a scaffold each time. Aerial lifts are particularly useful in maritime and industrial applications where conditions change rapidly or space is limited.
No matter which type of scaffold is chosen, strict attention to safety can’t be overlooked. That means abiding by weight limits, anchoring platforms correctly, and enforcing proper training for all personnel. Regular inspections must take place to catch issues before they escalate into accidents. When companies fail to follow established guidelines, they put everyone on the job at risk—something our Houston scaffolding injury lawyers believe should never be tolerated.
Protection for Workers from Scaffolding Falls
The basic mission of OSHA is to implement regulations to keep workers safe at work. They do this by requiring employers to provide safe working conditions. When employers do not abide by these standards, they are disregarding the safety of their employees and can consequently be held liable if one of their employees falls from scaffolding. Employer negligence is one of the leading causes of workplace accidents.
Employers must provide employees with fall protection equipment. Per OSHA, fall protection must be provided when a worker is expected to work at a height of four feet or greater in regular work environments. Standards differ in certain industries. For example, shipyard workers must be equipped with fall protection at heights of five feet or greater. Construction workers must be equipped with fall protection at six feet or higher.
Employers are also required to provide floor guards in cases where there are holes in the floor. Floor guards are called "toe-boards" or simply "floor hole covers" in the construction industry. Platforms that are open-sided must have guardrails to decrease the risk of scaffolding falls as well. Loose decking is a common cause of accidents in construction. Although OSHA requires construction sites to be equipped with secure decking on scaffolding, many workers frequently operate on scaffolding without decking or with decking that has not been properly installed. Decking is required to ensure secure footing so a worker does not lose their balance and fall. If a worker does fall, they should be wearing a fall harness. Fall harnesses are only required in certain situations, so be sure to check about the necessity of this protective gear.
Under OSHA standards, employers must regularly inspect scaffolding and equipment before they are put to use. Inspections should be carried out by competent and qualified individuals who can identify potential hazards and implement corrective measures immediately. Comprehensive training programs for workers on scaffolding safety procedures can significantly minimize risks of injury and ensure compliance with federal requirements.
Scaffolding Collapses in Houston: Legal Considerations
When scaffolding collapses, the consequences are catastrophic: workers may fall from dangerous heights, be struck by falling materials, or become trapped under heavy material. Safety on Houston scaffolding sites is regulated by both federal OSHA standards and state oversight through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). These rules govern everything from assembly methods to load capacity, and they're in place to protect workers.
Compliance with scaffolding safety standards is not optional. It's the law. In Houston's humid climate and extreme heat, scaffolding materials are especially vulnerable to corrosion and wear, making strict adherence to inspection and maintenance requirements even more critical. When contractors or employers ignore these responsibilities, they not only endanger lives but also open the door to significant legal liability.
The Legal Process After a Scaffolding Accident
After a scaffolding collapse in Houston, the legal process often begins with an investigation. OSHA and, in some cases, the TDLR may conduct inquiries into whether safety standards were violated. Injured workers or grieving families should know that these agency investigations are separate from civil claims for compensation.
To recover damages, a worker typically must file a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent party or parties. This might include general contractors who failed to enforce safety rules, property owners who pressured crews to work in unsafe conditions, or manufacturers who sold defective scaffolding equipment. In Texas, most personal injury lawsuits—including those arising from scaffolding accidents—must be filed within two years of the incident. Missing this statute of limitations can permanently bar recovery.
The process of filing a scaffolding injury lawsuit may involve collecting medical records, witness statements, engineering reports, and expert testimony to prove negligence caused the collapse. Because large construction companies and insurers often have teams of lawyers fighting to minimize payouts, having experienced trial attorneys is essential.
At Arnold & Itkin, our scaffolding accident lawyers in Houston build strong cases from day one, ensuring our clients are positioned to seek full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, future care needs, and the pain and suffering these preventable accidents cause.
Choosing the Right Houston Scaffolding Accident Attorney
When your livelihood and health are on the line after a scaffolding accident, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference. Houston workers deserve a firm that not only understands the law but also understands this city—its booming construction industry, its industrial workforce, and the challenges unique to laborers here.
Since 2004, Arnold & Itkin has been fighting for Houston families, winning record-setting verdicts and securing billions in compensation for clients injured on the job. What sets us apart isn't just our results—it's the way we care for our clients.
One Houston worker described what life was like before coming to us:
“I was given the run around. I never got any help. I was still sick, still hurting, and I was told I was fine to go back to work.”
That changed the moment he called Arnold & Itkin.
“On Wednesday, I spoke to Arnold & Itkin for the first time. Thursday, I signed the contract, and Friday morning, they had me following up with doctors here in Houston.”
That's the kind of action workers can expect from us: immediate, decisive help that gets you the care and support you need while we build the strongest possible case. Clients consistently tell us that what made us different was our honesty:
“They didn't beat me around the bush about anything, everything was upfront…They were very comforting through everything they did.”
At Arnold & Itkin, we believe injured workers deserve more than promises. They deserve real results. If you've been hurt in a scaffolding accident in Houston, we'll be in your corner from day one, fighting to make sure you and your family get the justice and compensation you deserve.
According to a Bureau of Labor Statistics study, approximately 72% of workers injured in scaffold accidents suffered harm when scaffolding planking or support failed, or when they slipped or were struck by a falling object. Far too often, these tragic events could have been avoided if employers simply followed OSHA and Texas safety regulations. When safety is not prioritized, construction accident injuries tend to be particularly severe—often rising to the level of catastrophic injury or, tragically, fatality. Our scaffolding accident lawyers in Houston have seen firsthand just how devastating these injuries can be for families and communities.
Common scaffolding injuries in the Houston area include:
Falls from scaffolding resulting from missing or inadequate guardrails
Scaffolding collapses due to overloaded platforms or improper construction
Workers struck by falling objects when the area beneath scaffolding is left unprotected
Electrocution from scaffolding constructed near live power lines or other energy sources
Pinched or crushed limbs due to incomplete or improper scaffold assembly
After a serious scaffolding accident, treatment must often extend far beyond the emergency room. Injured workers may require specialized trauma care, orthopedic surgery, or long-term rehab to regain mobility and independence.
Facilities like Texas Medical Center (home to world-renowned hospitals such as Memorial Hermann and Houston Methodist) provide advanced treatment for catastrophic injuries, including spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, and severe fractures. Rehabilitation centers such as TIRR Memorial Hermann (ranked second in the nation for medical rehabilitation) offer comprehensive programs designed to help patients rebuild strength, adapt to permanent disabilities, and return to as much normalcy as possible.
For many families, the road to recovery is long and costly, making it vital to pursue compensation that covers not only immediate medical needs but ongoing therapy, adaptive equipment, and future care.
Helping Victims of Ladder Falls in Texas & Nationwide
For many people, a ladder is just another tool for tasks like painting or installing fixtures. Yet, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, more than 500,000 people in the U.S. require treatment for ladder-related injuries each year—300 of whom lose their lives. Many of these tragedies occur at job sites, and many could be prevented if employers and product manufacturers followed proper safety guidelines. OSHA imposes rules to protect workers from faulty equipment and unsafe working conditions, but too often, these protections are ignored—with devastating results.
Common Causes & Hazards in Ladder Accidents
While an individual might take basic steps to stay safe, employers still bear primary responsibility for ensuring that ladders are stable, regularly inspected, and suitable for the job at hand. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen.
There are several hazardous conditions that employers must address:
Overloading ladders: Pushing equipment beyond its weight limit, often due to employers providing ladders that cannot safely sustain the necessary load. Clear weight limits should always be provided and followed.
Incorrect ladder selection: Using lightweight or non-conductive ladders in unsuitable environments, especially where electrical dangers are present, increases injury risks.
Improper ladder setup: Failing to stabilize ladders or secure the base, or not marking work areas to prevent others from disturbing the ladder, can result in falls or collisions with people or equipment.
Lack of routine inspection & maintenance: Problems like loose parts, warped supports, or slick oil and grease build-up must be remedied quickly, yet these safety checks are often skipped in high-paced Houston jobs.
Consequences of Negligence & Your Right to Compensation
Injuries from ladder and scaffolding falls can range from broken bones and concussions to severe spinal cord damage or even death. In addition to the physical and emotional toll, victims often face steep medical bills, lost wages, and long-term disability. The good news is that Texas law allows injured workers—or their families, in wrongful death cases—to pursue legal action against negligent parties. A Houston scaffolding accident attorney can clarify all possible sources of recovery and guide you throughout the legal process in Texas.
Victims may have claims against several types of defendants, including:
Employers who fail to provide proper training or safe working conditions.
Manufacturers who sell faulty or defective ladders or components.
Property owners who maintain unsafe job sites or fail to warn visitors and workers of on-site hazards.
It is vital for workers and families to document the accident scene, secure eyewitness accounts, and consult with a scaffolding accident attorney in Houston immediately to avoid common legal missteps before filing a claim.
A Houston Ladder Accident Lawyer Can Help
When workplace safety is ignored or corners are cut by employers or manufacturers, it’s dedicated workers who suffer the greatest harm. Injured workers deserve a Houston ladder accident lawyer who will advocate relentlessly to secure meaningful compensation for their injuries. At Arnold & Itkin, our trial lawyers are known for standing up to insurance companies and powerful corporations that attempt to deny or minimize valid claims. We protect Houston workers so they can focus on healing, knowing we are handling the legal battles ahead.
Injured in a Ladder or Scaffolding Accident? Contact Arnold & Itkin Today!
If you were injured in a scaffolding accident while working at a construction job site or in a related field, then please do not hesitate to contact the Houston construction accident lawyers at Arnold & Itkin. Our firm has a history of representing numerous types of workers who have been injured by employer or third-party negligence. We are passionate about securing workers' rights and benefits after ladders, scaffolding, and other accidents leading to serious injury or wrongful death. You deserve the best results, and we can fight to secure them. No matter what.
To learn more about your rights from nationally renowned Texas scaffolding accident lawyers, contact our firm at (888) 493-1629.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Scaffolding Collapses in Houston?
In Houston, scaffolding collapses are often attributed to a combination of factors. Poor construction is one of the primary causes, where improper assembly and inadequate fastening can lead to a structure's failure. The frequent use of substandard materials that do not meet safety regulations also significantly contributes to these incidents. Another leading cause is the overloading of scaffolding beyond its capacity, resulting in excessive stress on joints and supports. Additionally, external environmental factors, such as strong winds and heavy rainfall common in Houston, can exacerbate the risk of collapse if the scaffolding is not properly secured or weather-proofed. Proper training and regular compliance checks with OSHA standards are crucial in minimizing these risks and preventing potential accidents.
How Long Do I Have to File a Scaffolding Accident Claim in Texas?
In Texas, most personal injury lawsuits—including those arising from scaffolding accidents—must be filed within two years of the date of the accident. Missing this deadline generally means you lose the right to pursue compensation. Because investigation, evidence-gathering, and negotiations can take time, it’s wise to consult a Houston scaffolding accident lawyer as soon as possible to safeguard your claim.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Scaffolding Accident?
Seek medical attention right away, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Then, document the scene by taking photos or videos, noting unsafe conditions like missing guardrails or loose planks. Gather contact information from witnesses, and report the incident to your supervisor or employer as soon as possible. Finally, consult a Houston scaffolding accident lawyer to protect your rights and begin building a strong claim for compensation.
What Types of Compensation Could I Receive After a Scaffolding Accident?
Common forms of compensation include coverage for medical expenses (hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation), lost wages, diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, and more. If the ladder or scaffolding accident results in a fatality, families may pursue wrongful death damages to cover funeral costs, lost financial support, and emotional distress. Your attorney can assess the specifics of your case to determine what damages apply.
Can I Sue My Employer for a Scaffolding Accident?
If your employer carries workers’ compensation insurance, you typically cannot sue them directly for on-the-job injuries. However, there are exceptions, such as gross negligence or instances where a third party (e.g., equipment manufacturer or property owner) shares responsibility for the accident. A qualified attorney can help you explore all available legal avenues, including potential third-party claims.
