SAFE PLACE TO WORK
2004 Priority Issue

The bill would reform sections 240 and 241 of the state's Labor Law, also known as the "Scaffold Law." This law makes owners, contractors, and subcontractors absolutely liable for worksite injuries regardless of worksite safety programs, employee negligence, or any other factors in the injury. The law has been interpreted to pertain to any "gravity-related" worksite injury.

The bill is sponsored in the Assembly by Joe Morelle (A.7213) and in the Senate by Dale Volker (S.1710). It would change the absolute liability standard to one of contributory negligence for employers that provide appropriate safety training and equipment. The Business Council and its affiliate, the Construction Industry Council, have long sought such a reform and The Business Council strongly supports the bill (TBC's testimony).