Why Proper Ladder Safety Matters on Every Job Site
On any job site, ladders will be one of the first things that people see. Whether a construction group is building a new apartment complex or creating a warehouse from scratch, ladders are essential. They can help with boosting height and getting into places that are hard to reach, making them indispensable. However, ladders have become so ubiquitous that many people have very accustomed to them — perhaps too accustomed. It can be human nature to forget that there are serious risks associated with ladders. And some people — even supervisors — can become oblivious to the fact that accidents involving ladders are actually quite common. Unfortunately, a lot of workers are also unaware of how any fall — even from a height that some might consider “low” — can be catastrophic. What initially seems like a minor incident can spiral into something that requires trips to the doctor and causes missed days of work. For both employers and employees, it’s important to know how much damage can be sustained from any type of ladder accident.
When people think about ladder safety, they often focus on the climbing part of the process. And although it is crucial to pay attention to this, of course, there are many other factors that go into maintaining ladder safety. First, workers need to select the right ladder; many accidents can be avoided this way. Next, they need to take a close look at the ladder prior to using it. Workers will often assume that a ladder is in working condition just because it is on the job site. This is not always the case!
After inspecting the ladder, workers must ensure that they are setting it up properly. Then they must follow the correct safety protocols while the ladder is in use. While all of this may sound like common sense, it can be surprising how many of these safeguards fall by the wayside — especially on busy worksites. Everyone knows that time is money on a construction site, but it is imperative not to ignore safety regulations while trying to make a deadline.
How Do Ladder Accidents Happen in the Real World?
Here are some common issues that can lead to a ladder accident:
- Not picking the right ladder for the task
- Putting the ladder on a surface that is either weak, uneven or even moist and slippery
- Standing on top
- Not locking the ladder
- Carrying heavy equipment on the ladder
- Reaching too high instead of fixing the ladder’s position to get closer
- Not paying attention to the condition of the ladder
- Ignoring the max weight capacity
- Using a metal ladder while unaware of a nearby electrical issue
- Trying to use a ladder that is either too small or too large
Familiarity Can Cause Crises
It’s human nature for people to stop viewing something as a potential threat when they work with it every day. But it’s important to realize just how dangerous ladders can be. When workers take just a few moments — or even seconds — to assess the tools they’re using prior to a job, they can stop accidents before they happen.
Can Ladder Falls Cause Very Serious Injuries?
Yes! Any work injury lawyer will tell you that human bodies are not designed for falling from heights, even seemingly minor heights. One must also consider the surface below the fall and the way in which the person’s body is impacted when they hit the ground.
What Are Some Commonly Seen Ladder Injuries?
– Internal injuries and/or bleeding
– Broken bones (especially ankles, wrists, legs and arms)
– Hurting the neck and/or back
– Shoulder injuries
– TBI (traumatic brain injury) and head
– Lacerations and cuts
– Trauma to the spinal cord
Every accident is different, and every worker’s mileage may vary. Some people are able to recover fast from a ladder and get back to work almost immediately. However, it is not rare for workers to be in need of surgery after a fall. Some may require physical therapy and intense rehab. In the most extreme cases that can be seen on the news, ladder accidents may lead to death, paralysis, or permanent disability.
Picking the Right Ladder for the Job
When selecting a ladder for any task, people should always be cognizant of the following: the height required, the specific type of work being done, any potential nearby electrical issues, whether it’s inside or outside, the maximum weight of the ladder and the weight of the person performing the job plus their equipment.
Good construction supervisors will know, for instance, that if they are working in an area that may be electrically volatile, it’s best to use a fiberglass ladder instead of a metal one. Similarly, they will know when extension ladders are needed instead of stepladders.
Take a Look at the Ladder Every Time
You may use a ladder every day but then not realize that one day, it’s been damaged while being transported. Rungs and rails must be sturdy and secure. Check the feet also. Look for any hardware that may be missing and ensure that every hinge and lock is performing well. If it’s metal, inspect the ladder for corrosion. By taking a ladder out of service once a small issue is noticed, larger incidents can be prevented.
How Workers Can Stay Safe While Using Ladders
Every ladder must be on a level surface before someone gets on. Workers must also wear the right shoes with good traction. Fully opening and locking stepladders prior to use is critical. Properly securing extension ladders is key, and maintaining three points of contact with the ladder (two feet and one hand, for example) is advised. Workers must face the ladder while climbing up or down, and they should keep body weight centered. Leaning too far in any direction can be hazardous. Training is crucial, and managers should encourage a “safety first” attitude on the job. Every workplace should encourage workers to look out for themselves and for others.
If you have been seriously injured on the job and feel your injury could have been prevented, you should speak to an experienced work injury lawyer like the attorneys at Frost Law Firm, PC. You may be able to take legal action and obtain compensation that can go towards recovery costs and more.