As a construction worker, you are staffed with many responsibilities throughout the day. No matter what task you’re taking on, nothing changes the fact that your safety, health, and well-being should always come first. If you have any reason to believe that you’re in an unsafe situation, you should remove yourself without delay.
Ladders are one of the most common tools on a construction site. When used in a safe and appropriate manner, a ladder allows for the more efficient completion of a variety of jobs.
Conversely, if you don’t know the first thing about ladder safety, this could lead to serious injury or even death.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration shares a variety of information regarding ladder safety. The organization notes the following rules for using a ladder:
- Keep ladders clean and free of grease, oil, or anything else that could cause slipping.
- Ladders should only be used for the purpose for which they are designed.
- Ladders should never be loaded beyond the manufacturer’s rated capacity.
- Ladders must be placed on level and stable ground.
- Place ladders on dry surfaces, avoiding those that are slippery or could become slippery.
- Keep areas around the ladder free of debris.
- Face the ladder when climbing up or down.
- Do not carry any object on a ladder that could lead to a loss of balance.
By following these basic rules, construction workers find it much easier to remain safe at all times when using a ladder.
Unfortunately, even when workers and construction companies are familiar with these rules, there are times when accidents happen. For example, a company could make the mistake of continuing to use a ladder that is missing a rung or defective in some other way.
If you’re injured in a construction site accident, such as a fall from a ladder, it’s imperative to call for immediate medical assistance. If you’re unable to do so, have a coworker find help.
Once you’re health is stabilized and you can learn more about your accident, focus on the cause and whether or not a third party was responsible. At this point, you may realize that you can file a claim for workers’ compensation or a lawsuit against the negligent party.
