One of the most common causes of workplace injuries is falls. Every year, tens of thousands of workers are injured this way, and many of these falls occur on ladders.
Ladders make it easier to reach higher spots and complete tasks in areas above eye level. Recognizing some of the more common causes of ladder falls can help with accident prevention.
Outlined below are some of the more common causes of ladder accidents.
Defective equipment
There are several different types of ladders and workers must have access to the appropriate equipment. For instance, a step ladder would not be appropriate for a job at an excessive height. This is likely to result in the user overreaching and losing their balance.
It’s also important that ladders are well-maintained. Companies should keep an itemized list of their equipment as well as its age and condition. Faulty ladders should be disposed of so that they are not used in error.
Unsafe conditions
Certain conditions make ladder use unsafe. For example, if the worker is completing an outdoor project in high winds, any work requiring ladder use should be put off until the poor weather has passed.
It’s also essential that ladders are erected on level ground. If ladders are used on an uneven surface, this makes them more likely to shift, rock or fall over when in use.
Even when employees are well-trained in ladder safety, accidents can still happen. Workers who have been injured on the job are entitled to compensation for their injuries. If you’re faced with such a scenario, make sure you look into your legal options.
