Employees across Pennsylvania are exposed to a number of hazards in the workplace each day. Although anybody may use ladders occasionally, certain professions require them to be used frequently.
Accidents while using ladders are commonplace. Importantly, workers do not necessarily need to be at a great height for an injury to occur. In fact, simply miscalculating the final step on the way down is a common cause of accidents. One of the most effective preventative measures is to understand the different ways that accidents occur when using ladders.
Using ladders of an inappropriate size
For work to be carried out appropriately and safely, the right size of ladders must be used. Ladders that are either too short or two long present a significant risk.
3 points of contact
In order for balance to remain stable, workers should ensure that there are three points of contact at all times. For instance, either two hands and a foot or two feet and one hand should be in contact with the surface when climbing up or down.
The ground should be level and stable
Accidents commonly occur when ladders have been used on ground that is either unstable or not level. Working on such surfaces increases the possibility of the ladder moving while an employee is working from it. Consequently, it is pivotal that ladders are only used on ground surfaces that are both level and stable.
Overreaching
Overreaching while on a ladder is one of the most frequent causes of this specific type of accident. Therefore, it is vital that employees refrain from this behavior and try to maintain a steady balance at all times.
Workers in Pennsylvania have a right to work in a safe environment. In the unfortunate event that you have been injured while carrying out your employment duties, there may be legal options available to you.