NYC Construction Accident Lawyer Explains New York Scaffold Law

Section 240 holds property owners and contractors liable for worker falls and other elevation-related injuries.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 4:37pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A high-end, photorealistic studio still life featuring a construction hard hat, safety harness, and other premium construction equipment arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background, conceptually representing the abstract legal framework and worker safety concerns surrounding the New York Scaffold Law.A conceptual still life highlighting the legal obligations and safety equipment at the heart of New York's Scaffold Law.NYC Today

A New York City construction accident lawyer has provided an in-depth explanation of how the state's Scaffold Law, specifically Section 240, holds property owners and contractors liable for worker falls and other elevation-related injuries on construction sites. The law is intended to protect workers engaged in dangerous activities like working at heights.

Why it matters

The Scaffold Law is a unique piece of legislation in New York that has been the subject of ongoing debate, with some arguing it unfairly burdens businesses while others say it is essential for worker safety. Understanding how the law is applied is crucial for construction companies, property owners, and workers to navigate the legal landscape surrounding construction site accidents.

The details

Under Section 240 of the New York Scaffold Law, property owners and contractors have a non-delegable duty to provide proper safety equipment and take reasonable steps to protect workers from elevation-related risks. This means they can be held liable for worker injuries even if the worker was partially or fully at fault. The law applies to a wide range of construction activities, from roofing and window washing to the use of ladders, scaffolds, and hoists.

  • The New York Scaffold Law has been in effect since the late 19th century.

The players

New York Scaffold Law

A state law that holds property owners and contractors liable for worker falls and other elevation-related injuries on construction sites, even if the worker was partially at fault.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The Scaffold Law continues to be a contentious issue in New York, with ongoing debates about whether it provides essential worker protections or unfairly burdens businesses. Understanding how the law is applied is crucial for all parties involved in the construction industry to navigate the legal landscape surrounding job site accidents.