Construction sites are inherently hazardous. Ladder-related injuries are among the most common and preventable types of accidents on the job. Without proper training, workers can be seriously injured. Here’s what you need to know about this type of construction accident.
Construction safety and ladder accidents
Improper ladder use is responsible for thousands of injuries and fatalities each year. For construction workers who rely on ladders for tasks at various heights, adhering to ladder safety protocols can be lifesaving.
Ladder accidents can occur in numerous ways on a construction site, including:
- Falls from height: The most common ladder-related accident, falls often result in severe injuries such as fractures, head trauma or fatalities.
- Sliding or shifting ladders: If a ladder is not secured properly, it may slide or shift, leading to a loss of balance and falls.
- Overreaching: Extending too far from the ladder causes imbalance and can lead to a dangerous fall.
- Improper ladder use: Using the wrong type of ladder for a job or failing to inspect it for defects can result in breakage or instability.
- Electrocution: Metal ladders pose electrocution risks if they come into contact with power lines or other electrical sources.
Be sure to review OSHA and worksite guidelines to ensure that you’re using ladders properly—even if you’re an experienced worker.
What to do if you’re injured in a ladder accident
If you’re injured, here’s what you can to protect your health and your rights:
- Seek medical attention immediately: Don’t delay treatment. Documenting injuries as soon as possible will ensure proper care and create a medical record.
- Report the incident to your employer: Notify your supervisor or site manager of the accident. Filing an incident report is the first step for your workers’ compensation claim.
- Gather evidence: Take photos of the scene and the ladder involved, if possible, and document any conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
- Consult a personal injury attorney: Ladder accidents can lead to costly medical bills, lost wages and long-term disabilities. The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you navigate the workers’ compensation claims process and explore additional options for compensation.
In many cases, injured workers may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits to cover medical expenses and lost wages. However, if third-party negligence, such as a manufacturer’s defect, contributed to the injury, workers may also be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit for other damages.
If you’ve been injured in a ladder accident, the Law Offices of Tim Misny can help. Call today to get started on your claim.
Talk to a Columbus workers’ compensation and personal injury lawyer
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your accident claim. Whether you need help navigating the workers’ compensation system or filing a personal injury claim, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (877) 614-9524 so that I can evaluate your case right away.
