Do you work in an industry in which you use a ladder on what seems like a daily basis? While this basic tool can make life easier on you, it’s also extremely dangerous if you’re not careful 100 percent of the time.
There are many minor mistakes that can lead to a serious ladder accident at work. Here are some of the things you should try to avoid at all costs:
- Using a damaged ladder. A ladder with any type of damage or defect should be removed from service immediately. A cracked ladder could break once you put more pressure on it.
- Carrying a heavy load when climbing up or down a ladder. This is dangerous because it can cause you to lose your balance, thus knocking the ladder to the ground.
- Setting up a ladder on unleveled or soft ground. If you place a ladder on a slope, for example, it increases the likelihood of it tipping.
- Neglecting to use three points of contact. It’s imperative to keep three points of contact on the ladder at all times. For example, one hand and two feet or two hands and one foot.
- Standing on the top rung of a ladder. This increases the likelihood of the ladder tipping, so make sure you stop before you reach this point.
- Leaning or stretching while still standing on the ladder. It’s better to move the ladder to the appropriate position than to do this.
- Placing the ladder in an area where it could be struck by a passerby or vehicle. For example, you never want to place a ladder in close proximity to a door.
These are the just some of the many things that can cause a ladder accident at work.
If you’re involved in this type of accident with a ladder, don’t hesitate to call for help and receive proper medical care.
As you make your recovery, it’s imperative to listen to the advice of your medical team. If you are unable to immediately return to work, make sure that you learn more about your legal rights under the workers’ compensation system.