These tips can help workers avoid ladder falls

In many professions, such as the construction industry, falls from ladders are an inherent risk that workers face. But there’s no way for them to avoid using ladders in all instances, despite the fact that falls are one of the top reasons for fatal workplace accidents.

As such, it is important for workers to know what they can do to stay safe. Nothing guarantees that an accident won’t happen in a dangerous industry, but a focus on safety can make these accidents less common.

Safety steps to keep in mind

For construction workers, window washers, painters, roofers and many others, the following are important safety tips to remember every time they use a ladder:

• Ensure that the ladder is set up correctly and on a stable surface.
• Only have one worker use a ladder at a time.
• Never climb on the back side of the ladder.
• When climbing, always maintain three points of contact.
• Avoid carrying materials or tools up a ladder, as this makes three points of contact impossible.
• Pay close attention to weight limits.
• Watch out for power lines and other overhead hazards.
• Choose the right type of ladder for the job at hand.
• Never try to move a ladder while still standing on it or lean from the top of the ladder.
• Do not climb to the very top rung; if something is out of reach, climb down and get a taller ladder.

These tips and a general focus on working slowly and safely can help to prevent injuries. But some workers are still going to be hurt in accidents, and they need to know how to seek proper workers’ comp benefits at that time.