Unexpected accident in Queens leaves 1 worker dead

A construction worker is dead after a tragic fall at a home in Queens. The worker was installing solar panels at the home on a recent Thursday, when he slipped and fell two stories to the ground. Police were notified that the incident happened at approximately 11:30 a.m. The man was rushed to Elmhurst Hospital Center, and later pronounced dead at the medical facility.

The man was an employee of Sunrun, a solar panel installation company that had its installation permit approved in early October. After arriving on scene, the Department of Buildings implemented a stop work order. The department also issued a partial vacate order because the cellar and attic of the home were being illegally occupied.

According to Sunrun, the deceased worker was a certified electrician and an employee of Sunrun. The company also stated that it is investigating what happened and working closely with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as well as local authorities. “The safety of our employees, customers and contractors is our highest priority,” the company statement said. Sunrun also issued deep-felt thoughts for the worker’s family, friends and co-workers.

When a worker dies on the job in New York, surviving close family members and dependants may be able to pursue workers’ compensation death benefits. If the man was married, and/or had minor children who he was supporting, then these individuals will likely be able to receive such benefits. Also, other relations who can prove that they were financially dependent on the man may be able to seek death benefits too.

Source: amny.com, “Worker installing solar panels on Queens home fatally falls from roof, NYPD says,” Nicole Brown, Oct. 20, 2017