Despite all the advancements made in construction equipment safety, the ladder is still a source of serious and even fatal injuries for construction workers. Specifically, falls from ladders – especially tall ladders – are still too common.
According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), in 2020, some 22,710 workers were injured in ladder-related workplace accidents. Of those, 5,370 workers were in construction or extraction.
Those in repair, maintenance and installation jobs are also at risk of serious falls. According to NIOSH, 5,790 people in those jobs suffered ladder-related injuries, and 3,160 were in service jobs. Overall, 161 workers died that year as a result of falls from ladders.
What can business owners, supervisors and employees do to minimize the risk of ladder falls and serious injuries? To answer that, let’s look at the most common causes of these falls:
The wrong ladder is used
The ladder should be the correct size and have the right duty rating for its intended use. Otherwise, it could prove to be unstable. It should also be the appropriate height. If a worker uses a ladder that’s too short and has to stretch or stand on their toes to do their work, a fall is more likely.
The ladder is set at the wrong angle.
Some people don’t even think about the angle of a ladder when it’s set up. For example, extension ladders should be at a 75-degree angle. Approximately 40% of ladder injuries are caused by a ladder that’s been set up at too steep of an angle, so it slides out from under the user.
The ladder is not used safely
As noted, it’s dangerous to overreach while standing on a ladder. It’s also dangerous to try to carry things like equipment, paint cans and other items while climbing up or down a ladder. Both hands should be free to hold onto the ladder.
There is negligence in inspection and safety training
Employers should always ensure that their ladders are regularly inspected – and certainly when a worker notices something amiss. No worker should use a ladder that’s worn or broken. Further, any worker who’s going to be using a ladder – especially an extension ladder – needs to be trained on safety protocols.
Whether a fall was caused by a defective or broken ladder, lack of safety protocols or even negligence in how the ladder was used, it’s crucial for ladder accident survivors and loved ones of those fatally injured in a workplace ladder-related accident to know what their options are for obtaining compensation for medical care and other expenses and damages. Having experienced legal guidance can help.