Pre-job Planning Prevents Falls From Ladders

While the general community might think of injuries from a fall as being something

that happens from a significant height, accident statistics show a different picture. Significant injury or death can occur from heights of one to two metres, and the consequences can be fractured limbs, spinal cord damage, severe brain injury or death. Injuries also occur if spillage of a hazardous substance is involved, and this can be anything from paint to chemicals such as thinners, turpentine, solvents or industrial strength cleaners. These can have a devastating impact if accidentally ingested by mouth, or absorbed into the body through the eyes or skin.

Discovering a ladder fault while it is in use is not ideal. Rather a quick check of a ladder should be undertaken before each use to ensure that it is in good working condition with no warping or rust, no loose or cracked rungs or hinges; that it is fitted with non-slip safety feet in good condition, and that the ladder's height is right for the job at hand.

The following outline simple actions to help make ladder usage safer:

=> Set the ladder up on dry, firm and level ground.

=> Where possible, make sure all locks and braces are engaged - open a step ladder fully so it locks into place.

=> Check that the ladder is clear of electrical wiring and powerlines.

=> Locate the ladder in accordance with relevant safety standards.

=> Footwear should be well fitting, enclosed and slip-resistant.

=> Climb using both hands - place tools in a tool belt to keep both hands free.

=> Stay in the centre of the ladder when climbing.

=> Secure the top of an extension ladder into position before starting work.

Serious falls from ladders will generally occur when short cuts are used. Short cuts are never a good idea. The most common scenario is over-reaching, while still standing on the ladder. Another common and dangerous mistake is to let the ladder go in order to use both hands for the task being worked on. If the operator loses their footing, there's no soft landing.

While applying good ladder safety techniques can take more time, they help eliminate the risk of ladder falls.

Ladder safety is not difficult, but like so many preventable accidents, it does depend on having the right attitude to safety. By taking care, following safety guidelines and being sensible, these unfortunate situations can be significantly reduced.

Copyright (c) 2010 Nadine Davis

by: Nadine Davis

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