If you work in a warehouse, you are probably no stranger to ladders. After all, your job duties require you to reach objects that are far above your head. Before ever stepping foot on a ladder, though, you should realize how inherently dangerous these warehouse tools can be.
According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, ladder-related accidents send more than 160,000 Americans to the emergency room every single year. Sadly, 300 individuals die annually in ladder-associated accidents. To stay safe, you should always maintain three points of contact when working with ladders.
Three points of contact
Maintaining three points of contact with the ladder at all times helps to increase your stability while reducing your risk of suffering a serious injury in a fall. To maintain three points of contact, either keep both feet and one hand or one foot and two hands on the ladder at all times.
Safety gear
Even though maintaining three points of contact helps to reduce your injury risk, you should not overlook the importance of wearing appropriate safety gear. This may include a hard hat, safety vest or safety harness. You also should never use a ladder that has visible signs of damage or is inappropriate for your project.
Instructions
All ladders come with safety instructions. You may see these instructions printed on the side of the ladder or in a separate user’s manual. Even though you are busy at work, taking some time to read and understand the ladder’s instructions just may save your life.
Even if you always practice ladder-safety techniques, you can never eliminate your chances of suffering a catastrophic workplace injury when working with one. Ultimately, knowing you may be eligible for significant workers’ compensation benefits may put your mind at ease.