Unionized construction workers are frequently the targets of critical commentary concerning their wage scales and construction site work rules.  Many of those making these comments have never been involved in the construction industry and experienced its difficulties, hard work, and inherent dangers.  In fact, many of the comments come from pundits who sit in carpeted offices with wonderfully purified and ventilated heating and air conditioning systems. 

The reality for the construction worker is that he or she must deal with inclement weather, heavy workloads, uncomfortable surroundings, and frequently unhealthy air quality.  In addition, the work site itself, as it is being demolished or constructed, can create extreme hazards to the man or woman attempting to put in a full day's labor.  The risk of falling from a height or falling into an excavation is ever present at most construction sites.  Heavy earthmoving equipment and material-handling equipment also present dangers to construction workers.  All of these hazards and dangers become increased when construction workers are not fully trained through apprenticeship programs and in-service training that is available to unionized workers. 

Too often, owners of building sites seek to reduce their costs by hiring non-union workers who, although well intended and also seeking simply to earn a living to support themselves and their families, have received little or no training from their employers and do not have the benefit of a unionized labor force to ensure work site safety rules.  In addition, non-unionized shops may force an employee to act as a laborer and a carpenter or a laborer and an electrician all at the same time.  In this manner, work site safety is compromised and the quality of the construction project itself is jeopardized. 

Unions provide extensive apprenticeship programs in all trades in order to ensure that each individual is fully familiar with the skills that are necessary to perform his or her job duties and within the safety rules that must be followed.  These programs for training in both skills and safety have many benefits, not only to workers, but also to property owners.  By using only experienced and well-trained workers on a job site, the inherent dangers will be recognized and dealt with prior to serious injury occurring. 

While the owner may believe he or she is receiving a less costly product, in the long run, quality is likely to suffer and the cost of ownership to increase.  When common sense and mandated safety requirements are ignored in order to cut costs or speed up a job, the most likely outcome is an inferior construction project and likely serious injury or death to the workers involved. 

Fortunately, New York State recognizes the importance of providing safety to workers on a job site.  Under the New York State Labor Law, owners and contractors are required to provide proper equipment, safety procedures, and training for the workers whose lives and livelihoods are placed at risk.  Many of the rules and regulations surrounding the implementation of the Labor Law can appear complex and vague.  However, these laws have been successfully used to ensure adequate protection to construction workers and when these rules are violated, to provide compensation to the workers and their families when serious injury occurs.