WASHINGTON HEIGHTS, Manhattan (WABC) — New York City officials are investigating the structural integrity of a Yeshiva University building after scaffolding collapsed on a sidewalk shed in Manhattan on Sunday morning.

The incident took place around 9:20 a.m. at a five-story building located at West 185th Street and Amsterdam Avenue. Inspectors from the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) reported that part of the scaffolding, situated outside the fifth floor of the building, became dislodged and fell onto the sidewalk shed below. The force of the fall caused a portion of the shed to collapse as well.

Despite the damage, authorities confirmed that no injuries occurred during the incident.

The building's owners had valid work permits for facade repairs at the time of the scaffolding collapse, as per the DOB's findings. As a precautionary measure, the department has halted all construction work on the site, with the exception of necessary operations involving the city's department.

To ensure safety and facilitate cleanup, the DOB has instructed the building's contractors and sidewalk shed company to stabilize the remaining scaffolding and infrastructure at the site.

Ongoing Investigation and Safety Measures

The collapse has raised concerns regarding the safety of construction sites in the city. While the cause of the scaffolding failure remains under investigation, experts believe the incident underscores the importance of stringent safety measures in high-risk construction zones.

"The safety of construction workers and pedestrians is a top priority," said a spokesperson for the DOB. "We are thoroughly investigating the cause of the collapse and ensuring all safety protocols are followed to prevent future incidents."

Local residents in the area expressed concerns over the impact of the collapse. "I walk by this building every day, and it's a relief that no one was hurt," said one local resident. "But it makes you wonder how safe these structures really are."

Next Steps and Potential Legal Actions

As the investigation continues, questions remain about whether any violations occurred during the construction work. Legal experts note that if the scaffolding failure was caused by negligence, the construction company and building owners could face significant fines or penalties.

In addition, the city’s Department of Buildings is expected to enforce more rigorous inspections and require additional safety measures for ongoing construction projects. Officials have said that construction sites in the area will undergo more frequent checks to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Historical Context: Scaffolding Accidents in New York City

Scaffolding accidents in New York City are not uncommon. The city's construction boom has led to an increase in the number of temporary scaffolds put up for building renovations and repairs. While most scaffolding systems are designed to be sturdy and secure, failures can still occur due to improper installation, lack of maintenance, or structural weaknesses.

In recent years, the city has made efforts to improve construction safety standards by mandating more frequent inspections and requiring contractors to meet higher safety guidelines. The Department of Buildings has also introduced new technology, such as drone inspections, to enhance the monitoring of construction sites and reduce the risk of accidents.

Community Reactions and Concerns

Residents in the Washington Heights neighborhood have expressed relief that no one was injured in the incident but continue to voice concerns over construction safety. "It could have been much worse," said another local resident. "We need more accountability from the construction companies to ensure our safety."

As investigations continue, city officials are pledging to hold contractors and building owners accountable for any lapses in safety.

Originally reported by Eyewitness News.