subject: Fatal fall from ladder highlights the need to check equipment before undertaking DIY tasks [print this page] Fatal fall from ladder highlights the need to check equipment before undertaking DIY tasks
Browns Ladders is stressing the importance of ladder safety after a wet ladder and inadequate footwear caused the death of a 62-year-old man.
The retired film-maker from Caversham died after falling off a ladder at his holiday home in France, an inquest heard.
Michel Gemmell, from Overton Drive, was fixing a leak at the house in Normandy on November 15 last year.
His wife found him on the floor with his legs entangled in an A-frame ladder and a silicone gun beside him.
The local police officer, who arrived on the scene, concluded he appeared to have been fixing a leak wearing rubber boots.
He had been standing on a wet ladder and had probably slipped, the officer said.
Mr Gemmell fell two metres to his death - caused by traumatic head injuries.
Berkshire coroner Peter Bedford recorded a verdict of accidental death.
Browns Ladders says that this could have been avoided if proper measures were taken.
For more difficult DIY projects, it says, using safe ladders is the only way to ensure accidents are prevented.
Barbara Guinley, of Browns Ladders, said: "Be sure to check your shoes before stepping on the ladder rungs. Anything slippery or loose on the bottom could cause you to lose your footing.
"Wet and slippery ladders are also a prime reason for accidents. Check ladders for faults before using them.
"Also, check that your ladders and step ladders have a label showing that they conform to British and European standards.
"Be certain not to overextend your reach and under no circumstances lean too much on either side repositioning the ladder or step ladder instead."
Browns Ladders works in conjunction with the HSE for the Ladder Exchange 2009. Customers can bring in your old battered or bent ladder and exchange it for a brand new one at a discounted rate.
By providing on-site ladder inspections nationwide, plusLadders & Scaffold Training courses, Browns Ladders will ensure your company complies with the current Work at Height regulations.
For more information about the importance of ladder safety, or for ladder training and ladder inspections, visit http://www.brownsladders.co.uk.
