What is general contractor liability?

General contractor liability encompasses broad safety responsibilities for entire construction sites regardless of direct employment relationships. Overall safety coordination duties include implementing comprehensive safety programs affecting all workers. Supervisory authority creates liability even for subcontractor employees under contractor control. Retained control over safety means contractors cannot delegate away fundamental duties. Creating dangerous conditions through scheduling, methods, or equipment affects all site workers. Failing to correct known hazards despite awareness violates duties to all exposed workers. OSHA multi-employer policy assigns liability based on control and hazard awareness. Contractual safety assumptions through agreements create direct duties to workers. Insurance requirements ensure financial responsibility for injuries under contractor control. Site safety meetings and toolbox talks demonstrate safety involvement supporting liability. Accident investigation duties include preserving evidence and preventing recurrence. Subcontractor selection requires verifying safety records and insurance coverage. Indemnification attempts face limitations when gross negligence causes injuries. Prime contractor status on government projects may create non-delegable duties. Understanding general contractor liability ensures accountability for site-wide safety failures causing worker injuries.