Tree Removal Was First Step in Making Structural Repairs, Injury During Tree Removal Covered Under Labor Law 240 (1)

The Second Department determined removal of a tree which had fallen on a house, causing structural damage, was the first step in repairing the structure. Therefore, plaintiff, who fell while attempting the remove the tree, was engaged in an activity covered by Labor Law 240 (1) and 241 (6):

“… [T]he protections of Labor Law § 240(1) are to be afforded to tree removal when undertaken during the repair of a structure … . * * * Since the plaintiff was engaged in activities ancillary to the repair of the building from which he fell, the provisions of Labor Law § 241(6) are also applicable to the facts of this case.” Moreira v Osvaldo J. Ponzo, 2015 NY Slip Op 06792, 2nd Dept. 9-16-15