Any type of ladder mistake is one that can cause serious injury or even death. This is why it’s so important to know exactly what you are doing if you will be using a ladder for any task.
Many people use ladders every day at their place of employment. For instance, this tool is extremely common on construction sites and in warehouses.
While most workers never experience a ladder accident, you should never assume that nothing bad will ever happen. Here are some of the many ladder mistakes that can lead to serious injury:
— Using the wrong type of ladder for the job. You need to choose the right ladder for the task at hand. This includes things such as the type, length and weight capacity.
— Using a defective ladder. Any defect, no matter how small it may appear, can cause trouble when you’re using a ladder.
— Incorrect use. It’s easy to believe that using a ladder is simple, but nothing could be further from the truth. There are things you should and should not be doing. For instance, it is never a good idea to stand on the top rung of a ladder.
If you make any of these ladder mistakes, there is a chance that you could be part of a serious accident. In the event that this happens, don’t hesitate to seek medical treatment. You should also report the accident to your employer, as this will help keep others safe while also improving the likelihood of receiving workers’ compensation benefits in the future.
Source: West Bend, “Ladder Safety,” accessed June 19, 2017