Why Ladder Accidents Are Common and How Employers Can Stop Them

Ladder accidents persist in many industries, particularly in construction, maintenance, and repair work. Tens of thousands of workers in the United States sustain injuries from ladder-related incidents every year, with construction workers being disproportionately affected.

While the consequences of ladder accidents can be severe, including fractures, head trauma, and spinal injuries, the underlying causes are often preventable. In many cases, those seeking recourse after a serious incident turn to construction accident lawyers from The Perecman Firm for guidance and legal support.

Let's look at some common factors contributing to ladder accidents:

Factors Contributing to Ladder Accidents

Factors such as these contribute to the high number of ladder accidents in the workplace. Many incidents occur when workers stand or sit on ladders to perform tasks such as installation or repair, which require balance and stability.

Ladder falls account for 16% of all workplace fall-related deaths in the United States. Using a ladder may be especially hazardous for senior workers. The most frequently cited causes include:

• Ladder movement or instability, often due to improper setup or use.
• Lost balance, foot slips, or missed rungs
• Use of faulty or poorly maintained ladders
• Conditions such as slippery surfaces and poor lighting, though these are less common

Work experience also plays a role; both new and seasoned workers are at risk, with half of those injured having less than three years of experience, and nearly a third having over a decade on the job.

Small businesses and self-employed individuals face higher fatality rates, possibly due to fewer resources for safety training and equipment.

The Human and Economic Cost

The impact of ladder accidents extends beyond physical harm. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports, ladders were the leading cause of 161 fatal work-related injuries in 2020. This represented a 5.8% decrease from 2019, with 171 deaths.

The aftermath often involves prolonged medical treatment, rehabilitation, and loss of income. Head injuries, fractures, and spinal trauma are among the most common and devastating outcomes, sometimes resulting in permanent disability or death. These incidents also carry significant economic costs for employers, including lost productivity, compensation claims, and potential legal liabilities.

Effective Prevention Strategies for Employers

Despite the alarming statistics, nearly all ladder accidents are preventable when proper measures are in place. By implementing comprehensive safety protocols, employers play a critical role in reducing these risks. Key strategies include:

• Thorough planning to minimize the need for ladders by completing as much work as possible at ground level.
• Providing alternative equipment for elevated tasks, such as scaffolds or aerial lifts, especially for prolonged work.
• Ensuring ladders are appropriately selected, regularly inspected, and matched to the specific task and the worker's weight.
• Supplying necessary accessories, such as stabilizers or slip-resistant feet, to enhance ladder safety.
• Delivering ongoing, practical training on ladder use, setup, and hazard recognition.

Takeaway

Ladder accidents continue to pose a significant risk in many industries, leading to severe injuries, fatalities, and substantial economic costs. However, most of these incidents are preventable with proper safety measures.

Workers need to be protected by employers, such as minimizing ladder use when possible, providing safer alternatives like scaffolds, ensuring proper ladder maintenance, and offering comprehensive training.