Between 2013 and 2017, seven workers died and there were 4,985 accepted time-loss claims — including 1,667 serious injuries — as a result of falls from ladders across all industries in B.C.
“Falls from ladders are a serious safety concern in B.C., particularly at this time of year when wind, rain and snow pose hazards,” says Jessica Berglund, Senior Manager, Prevention Field Services, for WorkSafeBC. “Using a ladder safely can prevent serious injury or death. This includes choosing the right ladder, positioning it correctly and assessing hazards.”
Tips on using ladders safely:
– Select the right ladder for the job and ensure it is long enough to extend one metre above the upper landing.
– Place the ladder on a firm, level surface and inspect it before each use to ensure it’s in good working condition, looking for cracks or loose rungs.
– Maintain three points of contact while climbing a ladder: two feet and one hand, or two hands and one foot.
– Don’t work from the top two rungs of the ladder or have more than one worker on a ladder at once.
– Don’t carry heavy or bulky objects while climbing up or down a ladder.
– Wind, rain, and snow may pose hazards that need to be addressed.
– Check for power lines and ensure a minimum distance of three metres can be maintained at all times before starting work.