A fall can happen anywhere at any time. Whether it’s on a stool while changing a lightbulb or on a scaffold at a construction site, falls can be a continuous threat in the workplace. According to OSHA, falls make up 30% of deaths in construction, making them the leading cause of deaths each year, despite the many fall prevention campaigns most employers have in place.
How to prevent scaffolding accidents
There are many steps that can be taken in order to prevent life-altering falls from scaffolds. Not only do these fall prevention programs help prevent scaffolding incidents, but they also reduce the number of claims and costs associated with fall-related injuries, making these situations easier for employees to manage. Here are tips you can use to eliminate scaffold accidents in the workplace.
Use the right equipment
Serious injuries can happen even when you are three feet off the ground. Using proper personal protective equipment (PPE) like hard hats and sturdy no-slip boots can make a huge difference while working on scaffolds. A personal fall arrest system (PFAS), a system used to arrest an employee in a fall, can also save lives.
These systems can include a combination of a body harness, an anchor, and a lifeline that can protect an employee from free-falling above 6 feet from the ground. It’s suggested to examine all equipment before use to ensure it is not faulty. If you suspect unsafe equipment, contact your supervisor immediately.
Plan ahead
Before you step foot on a scaffold, it’s essential to know what job you are doing and what equipment will be used for the job. Employers should always include safety equipment and tools available at a worksite. Before performing a task, it’s necessary for employers to disclose what types of potential hazards a worksite can include. Workers should also be trained and prepared for an on-site accident.
Who is at fault?
Compensation for scaffold and ladder-related injuries can depend on the circumstances of the situation. If this injury happened while at work, you may be entitled to worker’s compensation, however, if the fall happened due to the negligence of someone who is not your employer, you may be entitled to pursue personal injury lawsuit. If you are ever unsure about the safety materials provided or the safety of a scaffold, contact a supervisor before use.
Contact us for assistance
Have you or a loved one been a victim of a scaffolding incident lately? Don’t hesitate to contact our work injury attorneys to discuss your case and what types of benefits and compensation you can receive from your employer. Navigating the legal process of filing a work injury or long-term disability claim can be difficult without proper legal counsel.
Feel free to contact the Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C. team for more information if you have questions about receiving your proper compensation. Fill out this form for a free consultation or call us at (844) 383-0565 if you’ve sustained injuries in the workplace.