Using ladders on the job can increase efficiency while carrying out various tasks. Unfortunately, using a ladder is also dangerous if you don’t know exactly what you’re doing. Even if you use this tool every day of the week, it’s still possible you could make a mistake that leads to a serious injury.
While it sounds simple enough to safely use a ladder, here are some safety tips you can never afford to overlook:
- Inspect the ladder for damage or defects before use
- Always keep three points of contact
- Make sure the ladder is placed on firm and level ground
- Don’t attempt to reach when standing on a ladder
- Don’t carry a heavy load up or down a ladder
- Make sure you use the right ladder for the job
- Don’t use a ladder in inclement weather, such as heavy rain or strong winds
- Avoid setting the ladder in high traffic areas, such as next to a door, street or busy sidewalk
Even if you’re familiar with these ladder safety tips, they may slip your mind every now and again. And if they do, the chance of an accident is much greater.
If you’re involved in a ladder accident at your place of employment, regardless of the cause, make sure you report the incident to your supervisor. Then, remain where you are until medical help arrives. There’s a chance you’ve suffered an injury, and you don’t want to make it worse by trying to move.
Once you understand your injury and prognosis, learn more about the steps you can take to obtain workers’ compensation benefits.
Source: Washington State Dept. of Labor & Industries, “10 Tips for Ladder Safety,” accessed Feb. 07, 2018