Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local 1 (BAC)

Advocating for Injured Members of BAC Local 1

At The Orlow Firm, we know how hard and dedicated you have to be to work in masonry and similar trades. The workers from Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local 1 (BAC) are key in building and looking after New York’s infrastructure. They often work in risky conditions. When they get hurt on the job, BAC members should have solid legal help. They need a team that gets what their job demands and knows the protections union workers have.

If you’re building a tall building in Manhattan or fixing up a house in Queens, staying safe should always be your top priority. Sadly, even if you do everything right to stay safe, accidents can happen. Sometimes, this is because people like general contractors, property owners, or other workers don’t do what they’re supposed to. That’s when our law firm steps in to help.

Since 1982, The Orlow Firm has stood up for injured construction workers in New York City. We’ve helped many union workers get fair compensation, including workers without documents and members of Local 1. These workers had serious harm such as Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, and experienced Wrongful Death due to unsafe work conditions. We understand how to use union benefits and work with Workers’ Compensation. At the same time, we also handle personal injury cases. This helps to increase the financial support you receive after an injury.

If you belong to BAC Local 1 and you’ve been hurt at work, you’re not alone. We’re here to stand up for your rights, work towards obtaining the Workers’ Compensation you’re entitled to, and assist you in your recovery.

About Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local 1 (BAC)

The Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local 1 New York, or BAC Local 1, is a group that stands for many skilled workers in New York City, Long Island, and nearby places. These workers are all about building and masonry. BAC Local 1 is part of a bigger group called the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, or IUBAC. This big group has a long history and is highly respected. It’s been around since 1865, making it one of the oldest labor unions in North America.

BAC Local 1 is home to professionals skilled in:

• Bricklaying
• Cement masonry
• Stone setting
• Tile setting and terrazzo work
• Plastering
• Refractory and restoration work
• Marble setting and pointing, cleaning, and caulking

BAC Local 1 is based in Long Island City. They are known for their top-notch training, safety lessons, and firm support for fair pay, job safety, and good work conditions. The union helps its members through training programs, ongoing education, and help finding jobs. This makes sure their members are among the best respected and ready in the building industry.

BAC Local 1 is central in promoting safety at work. It works along with employers to help make work sites better and safer. It’s always prepared to help its members who get hurt while working. Known for unity and high-quality work, BAC Local 1 is not just a labor group. It’s a community of professionals, deeply connected to its traditions and dedicated to making workers stronger.

At The Orlow Firm, we stand by BAC Local 1 members, providing legal help that matches their values: strength, honesty, and commitment to fairness.

Common Accidents Faced by Bricklayers and Craftworkers

People who work for BAC Local 1 often have tough jobs. Even a tiny mistake can cause a serious injury. Bricklayers, stone masons, tile setters, and restoration workers often face dangers that others may not understand. These aren’t just minor problems at work. They can change a worker’s life, making them unable to work for weeks, months, or even forever.

Here are some usual accident types that affect BAC members:

• Scaffold or Ladder Falls: Falls are a common danger in the construction world. They often occur when workers are doing tasks high up, like bricklaying or fixing building exteriors. These falls can cause serious harm or even death. Many times, they happen because the scaffolding isn’t secured correctly or there’s no protection to stop falls.

• Falling Items: When things like tools, bricks, or other debris fall from higher places, they can hit workers with a strong force. This could lead to serious injuries like Traumatic Brain Injury, broken bones, or even more severe harm.

• Wall or Building Falls: If a wall that’s not fully built or not stable falls down, it may trap or hurt workers close by. This can lead to serious injuries like damage to the back, spine, or injuries caused by being crushed.

• Electrocutions: Workers may touch live wires when tearing down or fixing up buildings. This is especially likely if they’re around bare wires or circuits that aren’t marked right. This can lead to severe electrical burns or falls caused by a sudden shock.

• Repeated Stress and Hard Work: Doing the same task over and over, like laying bricks, moving materials, or working in uncomfortable positions can cause problems. These problems can be injuries to the soft parts of the body, ongoing back pain, or damage to the joints that gets worse over time.

• Equipment-Related Accidents: Unsafe or poorly kept equipment, like power tools, forklifts, or scaffolds, can put BAC members in danger all the time.

Accidents happening at work are not just unfortunate events – they can often be stopped before they happen. This is especially true when safety standards are ignored at job sites, or when general contractors try to save time and money by not doing their job properly. This can lead to workers getting hurt. At The Orlow Firm, we aim to make sure that those who didn’t follow the rules are held responsible. We stand up for the rights of injured BAC Local 1 members, seeking justice for them.

How The Orlow Firm Supports BAC Local 1 Members

When a BAC Local 1 member gets hurt at work, dealing with the law can seem very hard. This can be even more difficult while you’re in pain, missing paychecks, and feeling pushed by your boss or insurance company. At The Orlow Firm, we’re here to help. We have many decades of experience supporting injured union workers in New York City. We know the tough work you do and understand the legal issues that can come from construction accidents.

This is how we assist bricklayers, tile setters, stone masons, and similar workers:

We understand the challenges that come with your profession. That’s why we’re committed to supporting you in times of need. If you’re dealing with a Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, or if you’ve lost a loved one due to a Wrongful Death, we’re here to help.

We also assist with Premises Liability and Workers’ Compensation cases. We know these legal issues can be complex and we’re dedicated to making the process as simple as possible for you.

Remember, we are here to guide and support you during these difficult times.

Coordinating with Your Union Benefits and Workers’ Compensation

We know how union benefits work together with New York State Workers’ Compensation. We’ll help to make sure you get the medical help and short-term disability payments you should have. While doing this, we’ll also look into whether there is a chance for a lawsuit against a third party. This could give you extra money, above what Workers’ Compensation provides.

Pursuing Third-Party Personal Injury Claims

If you got hurt because of someone who isn’t your direct boss—like a main contractor, a subcontractor, a property owner, or a maker of equipment—we can help you start a separate personal injury lawsuit. These lawsuits can help you get money for your pain and suffering, emotional upset, lost pay, and medical bills that workers’ compensation doesn’t fully pay for.

Fighting for Undocumented Workers

Your immigration status won’t change your right to ask for compensation. We have successfully helped undocumented BAC members. One of our successes includes securing a $2.474 million settlement for a worker who fell because of an electric shock at work. Our firm makes sure all workers are treated with dignity and are defended under New York labor law.

Investigating Unsafe Work Conditions

We work together with safety pros, health care workers, and other professionals to make your case strong. We show how you got hurt and who should answer for it. Whether it’s from a falling scaffold or broken safety rules, we look into every detail.

No Upfront Costs, No Risk to You

We operate on what’s called a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t have to pay us unless we win your case. Our job is to stand up for your rights, get you the highest recovery possible, and make the whole process less stressful for you.

If you are a BAC Local 1 member and you’ve been hurt at work, please get in touch with The Orlow Firm. We are more than just your lawyers, we stand by your side.

Types of Injuries in Masonry and Allied Trades

Working with stone, tile, and masonry can be tough. People who do these jobs, like BAC Local 1 members, can get hurt in many ways. Some injuries could change your life for a long time. They can happen because of one big accident, or from many small ones over the years. These injuries can affect your work, your family, and your day-to-day life.

Common Injuries Faced by Bricklayers and Craftworkers

• Spinal Cord Injuries: Falls from ladders or scaffolding often lead to spinal cord injuries, which may result in partial or full paralysis, limited mobility, or chronic pain.
• Back Injuries and Herniated Discs: Repeated heavy lifting or awkward movements can lead to back injuries that require surgery, physical therapy, and extended time off work.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Falling debris, equipment malfunctions, or falls from height can cause traumatic brain injuries, including concussions or long-term cognitive impairment.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: Legs, arms, wrists, and ribs are all at risk when walls collapse, ladders give way, or workers are struck by heavy materials. Learn more about broken bone injuries.
• Shoulder and Knee Injuries: These joint injuries often require surgery and may stem from lifting, climbing, or bracing during a fall. Visit our shoulder injury and knee injury pages to learn more.
• Burns and Electrical Injuries: When BAC members work around live wires or defective equipment, they risk electrical injuries and chemical or thermal burns.
• Chronic Pain and Repetitive Motion Injuries: Conditions like carpal tunnel, joint degeneration, and soft tissue damage are common after years of laying block, grouting tile, or handling heavy tools.
• Eye and Face Injuries: Debris, dust, and poorly secured materials can result in vision loss or facial trauma—especially in demolition and restoration work.

Injuries like these often need more than just quick medical help. They call for continued healing treatments, getting back lost wages, and taking legal steps to make careless people responsible. At The Orlow Firm, we spend time understanding your injuries fully. We talk with health experts and work hard to get every dollar you need to recover and rebuild your life.

What Compensation Can Union Workers Recover?

When members of BAC Local 1 get hurt at work, they often deal with more than just physical pain. They may also face medical bills, time off work, emotional stress, and worries about what comes next. Workers’ Compensation might help with some costs, but it often doesn’t cover everything, especially when the injury is severe. That’s where The Orlow Firm comes in. We work hard to find all possible ways to get you compensation. This includes looking into third-party personal injury claims.

Potential Damages You May Be Entitled To

Here’s what you might be able to get, based on the details of your situation:

• Medical Expenses
  Coverage for hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and long-term treatment needs. Learn more: What medical expenses are covered in a personal injury case?
• Lost Wages and Future Earnings
  Compensation for income lost while recovering and diminished earning capacity if your injury limits your ability to return to full-duty work. Learn more: What is lost wages?
• Pain and Suffering
  Financial recognition of your physical pain, mental anguish, and overall loss of comfort. Learn more: What is pain and suffering damages?
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life
  If your injuries prevent you from enjoying daily activities, hobbies, or quality time with loved ones, you may be entitled to compensation. Navigating loss of enjoyment of life claims
• Loss of Consortium
  If your injury has affected your relationship with your spouse or family, this non-economic damage may apply. Learn more: What is loss of consortium?
• Disfigurement or Permanent Disability
  Compensation for permanent scars, amputations, or long-term disability that affects your ability to work and live independently.
• Wrongful Death Benefits
  If a BAC Local 1 member dies due to a job site accident, the family may pursue a wrongful death claim for funeral expenses, loss of support, and emotional suffering.

Third-Party Claims vs. Workers’ Compensation

Workers’ compensation offers some benefits, but it doesn’t cover pain and suffering or extra damages as a punishment. But, if someone else had a part in your injury – like a main contractor, a subcontractor, the person who owns the property, or the company that made the equipment – we can help. We can start another lawsuit, known as a third-party lawsuit, along with your workers’ compensation claim.

At The Orlow Firm, we thoroughly explore every avenue to help you get the compensation you deserve. We know how union agreements, benefit funds, and New York labor laws work together. We use this understanding to obtain the best possible financial support for injured bricklayers and allied craftworkers.

Key Legal Rights for Unionized Construction Workers in New York

If you belong to BAC Local 1, you don’t only have your union’s protection. You also have strong rights under the labor laws of New York State. These laws aim to keep construction workers safe from dangerous conditions. They also make sure those who ignore these safety measures are held responsible. At The Orlow Firm, we use these legal means to actively seek fairness for union workers who have been hurt.

New York Labor Law Protections for BAC Members

• Labor Law § 240 – The “Scaffold Law”
  This law provides strong protections for workers injured in falls from heights or by falling objects while working on scaffolds, ladders, or other elevated surfaces. Property owners and general contractors can be held strictly liable, meaning they are responsible even if the worker was partially at fault.
• Labor Law § 241(6)
  Requires contractors and owners to comply with detailed construction safety regulations under New York’s Industrial Code. Violations of these rules—such as inadequate safety gear, debris-covered walkways, or unguarded machinery—can serve as the basis for a personal injury claim.
• Labor Law § 200
  Provides a general duty to keep job sites safe. If you were injured due to a dangerous condition or unsafe practices on site, this law may support a claim against the owner, general contractor, or another responsible party.

You Cannot Be Denied Compensation Based on Immigration Status

Even if you don’t have legal documents, you have the right to make a personal injury claim in New York. The courts won’t let your immigration status be used against you when you’re hurt and looking for fair payback.

Union Membership Doesn’t Limit Your Rights to Sue

Your union may assist you in filing a workers’ compensation claim or getting medical benefits. However, only a skilled personal injury lawyer can guide you in seeking a third-party lawsuit for complete financial recovery. These two methods are different but they work together for your benefit.

You Have the Right to Refuse Unsafe Work

The rules from OSHA and New York labor law protect you. These laws mean you can say no to work that could harm your health or safety right away. If someone punishes you for this, you might have more legal options to help you.

Knowing your rights is key to safeguarding your health, income, and future. At The Orlow Firm, we stand firmly with BAC Local 1 members, ensuring their rights are upheld. If you’ve been hurt, we’re here to guide you in using every legal benefit that the law provides.

Real Results for Injured Construction Workers

At The Orlow Firm, we are dedicated to standing up for hurt BAC Local 1 members. We have a history of obtaining many large settlements and decisions for union workers who were injured while working. These results not only show our understanding of New York labor law, but also our continuous dedication to making sure those at fault are held responsible.

Take a look at these recent cases. They show how we’ve assisted hurt workers get the payment they are entitled to:

• $3.375 Million
  For a construction worker who fell 12 feet off a ladder, suffering injuries to his neck, back, elbow, and shoulder. Both his neck and back required surgery.
• $2.474 Million
  For an undocumented BAC member who suffered an electric shock while standing on a scaffold. He fell and sustained back and knee injuries, both requiring surgery.
• $2.6 Million
  For a HVAC laborer injured when a drop ceiling fell on him. He suffered back, knee, and shoulder injuries that required surgical treatment.
• $2.5 Million
  For a forklift operator injured when a wall collapsed on the machine. He sustained serious back injuries that required surgery and prevented him from returning to work.
• $1.75 Million
  Settlement for a construction worker who fell down stairs while carrying metal studs, injuring his back and requiring surgery.
• $1.6 Million
  For a BAC member who fell on a temporary staircase that was improperly secured. He suffered a serious back injury requiring surgery.

We’ve had many successful outcomes in helping injured union workers across New York City. No matter if the job site is in Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, or the Bronx, we apply the same level of care, attention, and resolve to all our cases.

If you belong to BAC Local 1 and got hurt at work, remember you’re not by yourself. You should get what you fairly deserve. The Orlow Firm is prepared to stand up for your rights.

What to Do After a Job Site Injury

If you’re a BAC Local 1 member and you’ve gotten hurt at work, what you do right after the accident can greatly affect your healing process and your chances of getting fair payment. Even if your injuries seem small at first, taking too long to act or making errors early can badly damage your legal case.

These are the key steps you should take:

1. Get Medical Attention Immediately – Prioritize your health. Go to the nearest emergency room, urgent care center, or trusted medical provider. Don’t assume the injury will “get better on its own”—documenting it early is critical to your case.
2. Report the Injury to Your Employer or Site Supervisor – Notify your foreman, union steward, or site safety manager as soon as possible. This establishes a formal record of the incident, which can support both your workers’ comp claim and any potential third-party lawsuit.
3. Document the Scene – If you’re physically able, take photos or videos of the hazard that caused your injury—whether it’s a broken scaffold, missing guardrails, or a collapsed wall. If you can’t do it yourself, ask a trusted coworker to help.
4. Get Witness Information – Collect names and contact information of any coworkers or bystanders who saw the accident or the unsafe conditions. Their statements can provide essential support for your case.
5. Do Not Speak with Insurance Adjusters Alone – Insurance companies representing property owners, general contractors, or equipment manufacturers may reach out to you quickly. Politely decline to give a statement until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.
6. Contact an Experienced Construction Accident Attorney – Before filing any claims or signing any paperwork, speak with a legal team that understands union labor rights and New York’s construction laws. The Orlow Firm offers free, confidential consultations—and we only get paid if we win your case.
7. Keep Track of All Expenses and Treatment – Save medical records, receipts, time-off documentation, and any out-of-pocket costs related to your injury. These records are essential for calculating full compensation.

If you’re injured at work, your life doesn’t have to fall apart. With the right actions taken promptly, you can safeguard your rights and set yourself up for a good legal outcome. The Orlow Firm is here to help BAC Local 1 members at every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions for BAC Members

Facing a severe injury from work can be a tough journey. It gets harder when you have to manage loss of pay, medical expenses, and stress from various sources. Here are answers to some of the often-asked questions we hear from BAC Local 1 members after an accident.

Is workers’ compensation my only option for my injury?
No. Workers’ compensation offers key benefits, but you might be able to make a third-party personal injury claim as well. If someone besides your direct boss—like a main contractor, a property owner, or an equipment maker—was careless, you could be eligible. These claims can give you money for your pain, emotional upset, and more.

What if I don’t have legal papers? Can I still make a legal claim?
Yes. In New York, your immigration standing doesn’t change your ability to file a personal injury claim. We’ve effectively stood up for undocumented construction workers and have secured millions in workers’ compensation.

Can I still take legal action if the accident was partly my fault?
Yes, you can. In New York, we have a system called comparative negligence. This means you can still receive money for your damages, even if you had some responsibility in the accident. However, the amount you get might be less, depending on how much of the accident was your fault. Want to understand more about comparative negligence?

What is the cost to hire The Orlow Firm?
You don’t pay anything at first. We follow a contingency fee system. This means you owe us nothing unless we successfully win your case. Our payment comes from a portion of your final settlement or verdict.

When can I file a personal injury lawsuit?
Usually, you get three years from the day you got hurt to file a lawsuit. But, if your case has to do with a city agency or public job site, you might need to file a Notice of Claim in just 90 days. It’s important to act fast. If you wait too long, you might lose your chance to get compensation for your injury.

Can The Orlow Firm assist me even if I’m already receiving union or workers’ compensation benefits?
Absolutely. Our job is to add to your union and workers’ compensation support. We do this by seeking complete compensation through a third-party injury claim. These claims can help you get compensation that workers’ compensation doesn’t include, like the loss of life’s pleasures.

What types of injuries can lead to legal steps?

Injuries from unsafe work conditions might allow for legal action. This can involve Spinal Cord Injury, Traumatic Brain Injury, broken bones, burns, or injuries to the back. Don’t think your case is too minor to follow up on.

Do you still need answers? The Orlow Firm provides no-cost, private meetings for BAC members who got hurt at work. Dial (646) 647-3398 to talk directly with a knowledgeable lawyer who handles construction accident cases.

Local Medical Facilities and Union Resources

If you’ve been hurt at work, it’s crucial to get medical help quickly. It’s just as important to safeguard your legal rights. If you’re a member of BAC Local 1, you should know where to look for reliable medical care, union help, and city resources that can assist with your recovery. Here is a list of useful services in the NYC area.

Hospitals & Medical Centers

These places provide urgent help, bone doctors, recovery support, and other services.

Mount Sinai Queens
30th Avenue, Number 25-10
Astoria, New York, 11102
Phone: (718) 932-1000
Website: https://www.mountsinai.org/locations/queens

Orthopedic Hospital at NYU Langone
301 E 17th Street
New York, NY 10003
Phone: (212) 598-6000
Website: https://nyulangone.org/locations/orthopedic-hospital

NewYork-Presbyterian Queens
Main Street, #56-45
Flushing, NY 11355
Phone: (718) 670-2000
Website: https://www.nyp.org/queens

HSS – Hospital for Special Surgery
Located at 535 E 70th Street, New York, NY 10021
Phone: (212) 606-1000
Website: https://www.hss.edu

Union & Worker Resources

Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Local 1 NY
Main Office Location:
25-25 Borden Avenue,
Long Island City, NY 11101
Phone: (718) 706-9294
Website: https://www.bac1ny.org

Mason Tenders District Council (MTDC)
Greater New York Area
520 8th Avenue, Suite 650
New York, NY 10018
Phone: (212) 452-9700
Website: https://masontenders.org

OSHA Office in New York City
201 Varick Street, Room 908
New York, NY 10014
Phone: (212) 620-3200
Website: https://www.osha.gov

Workers’ Compensation & Legal Help

New York’s Board for Workers’ Compensation
Call: (877) 632-4996
Website: https://www.wcb.ny.gov

The Orlow Firm – No-Cost Legal Advice
(646) 647-3398

New York City Construction Accident Lawyers

If you need help after a construction accident, The Orlow Firm is here for you. Get free legal advice by calling us at the number above or by visiting our website. We handle cases related to Traumatic Brain Injury, Spinal Cord Injury, Wrongful Death, Premises Liability, and Workers’ Compensation. We’re here to support and guide you, always keeping your best interests in mind.

If you’re healing from a Spinal Cord Injury, getting treatment for a broken bone, or coping with an injury from your job, finding the right medical help quickly can make your health and legal outcomes better. Need help finding these resources? The Orlow Firm is ready to help guide you at every stage.

Why BAC Workers Trust The Orlow Firm

When BAC Local 1 members get injured at work, they need more than just legal guidance. They need a team that gets their job, values their union, and knows how to succeed against big construction firms and insurance companies. That’s exactly what The Orlow Firm provides.

Decades of Construction Injury Experience

Since 1982, we’ve stood by the side of construction workers in New York City who have been hurt on the job. Whether it’s a fall from a ladder or a wall collapse, we understand the complexities of these cases and the strategies needed for success.

Proven Results for Union Members

Our firm has successfully helped BAC members and other union workers get significant financial settlements. It doesn’t matter if you’re documented or not, or whether you’re part of a union. We work hard to get you the financial help you deserve. This is exactly what we did for a client who got $2.474 million after an electrical shock made him fall from a scaffold.

We Understand the Trade

Our team understands the dangers that bricklayers deal with each day. These include working at high levels, repeating the same movements, lifting heavy items, and being around risks at the work site. We partner with knowledgeable people to look into unsafe situations and create strong cases.

Respect for Union Protections

We team up with your union, not oppose it. We work together with union representatives and benefit funds to ensure you’re safeguarded in all areas. This is while we chase after third-party claims that extend beyond Workers’ Compensation.

No Fees Unless We Win

You won’t need to spend any money upfront. We only get paid if we successfully win your case. This way, you can concentrate on getting better, while we work hard to secure your compensation.

Client-Focused, Not Corporate

We won’t see you as just a case number. You’ll be able to talk directly to your attorney, receive easy-to-understand updates, and experience the care you deserve at every step.

Members of BAC Local 1 understand the value of hard work and doing the job properly. We bring the same dedication to every case we handle. If you’ve suffered an injury, The Orlow Firm is the group you need by your side. We are thorough, we don’t give up, and we take pride in our work.

Contact The Orlow Firm for a Free Consultation

If you belong to BAC Local 1 and got hurt at a construction site, remember you’re not alone. The Orlow Firm is here to help. We aim to defend your rights, make sure those at fault face consequences, and strive to get you every dollar you are due. With over 40 years of dealing with cases for injured construction workers in New York City, we understand how to handle tricky claims. We work hard to get the most compensation for you and stand strong against big contractors and insurance companies.

Our services include:
– Legal help for Traumatic Brain Injury cases
– Assistance with Wrongful Death claims
– Support for Spinal Cord Injury cases
– Guidance in Premises Liability situations
– Aid with Workers’ Compensation issues

We are here to help you understand your rights and navigate the legal process. Our approach is professional and compassionate, and we strive to communicate clearly to make things easier for you during this challenging time.

• Free, no-obligation consultations
• No upfront costs—you only pay if we win
• Bilingual support and culturally sensitive representation
• A legal team that treats you with respect and keeps you informed every step of the way

If you’re facing a severe injury, enduring a lasting disability, or finding it hard to pay bills after an accident, we’re here to help you move forward.

📞 Dial (646) 647-3398
📍 Our offices are located in Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and The Bronx.

You’ve worked hard, contributing to the growth of New York one brick at a time. Now, it’s our turn to work for you. We’ll construct your case with the same level of care and determination you’ve shown. We’re committed to providing the support you need.