Why do ladder accidents happen on worksites?
If you work in the construction industry (among others), you may find yourself using a ladder on a daily basis. For some, this becomes second nature. Although you may feel comfortable using a ladder, here’s something you need to remember: An accident can cause serious injury or even death. This is why you must be careful every time you use this equipment.
Here are three of the primary reasons for a ladder accident on a worksite:
– Using the wrong type of ladder. There is more than one type of ladder, so make sure you choose the right one for the job.
– Using a damaged ladder. Over time, ladders have a way of becoming worn out and damaged. This may not sound like a big deal, but you never want a ladder to fail while you’re using it.
– Incorrect placement. When positioning a ladder, it must be on firm and level ground. If it’s not, the ladder could slip or tip. Either way, this will put you in a bad spot.
Even if you’re committed to ladder safety, it only takes one mistake to cause an accident. If you’re injured at work as the result of a ladder accident, you need to do these two things:
– Report the accident to your employer.
– Receive immediate medical attention.
If you do both these things, you will eventually find yourself in position to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. In the event that your claim is denied, don’t hesitate to find out why and then file an appeal. There’s a good chance you deserve to receive compensation, so you don’t want to give up. An attorney who is experienced in workers’ compensation appeals can help.
Source: West Bend, “Ladder Safety,” accessed Dec. 28, 2016