March is Ladder Safety Month in the U.S., and as we turn our focus to the crucial aspect of workplace safety, it is essential to address a common yet often overlooked hazard—ladders. In my role as a workers’ compensation attorney and president of the Georgia Injured Workers Advocates (GIWA), I have witnessed the consequences of construction accidents that involve ladders. These incidents not only cause severe injuries but can also impact workers’ lives and livelihoods. Here are three vital considerations if you use ladders at work.

 

Before you step onto a ladder, it’s imperative to make sure your employer has proper workers’ compensation insurance. This insurance is a safety net, providing you with medical benefits and wage replacement should an accident occur. According to the Center for Construction Research and Training, approximately 81% of fall injuries treated in U.S. emergency rooms involve a ladder. Working without this insurance is a significant risk as it could mean the difference between receiving proper care and support or facing a mountain of medical bills with no compensation for lost wages. You can verify coverage at the website for the State Board of Workers’ Compensation.

 

Statistics surrounding work-related accidents, especially those involving ladders, are a stark reminder of why comprehensive coverage is so vital. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2019 alone, there were 244,000 nonfatal falls, slips, or trips in the workplace, accounting for a substantial amount of injuries and fatalities in construction accidents. Ensuring that workers’ compensation insurance is in place is a critical step in safeguarding your wellbeing while on the job. If there is no insurance, we are unable to enforce your rights.

 

The provision of appropriate equipment and protective gear is a fundamental responsibility of your employer. Ensuring that ladders are OSHA-compliant, well-maintained, and suitable for the task is not negotiable. Likewise, personal protective equipment (PPE) like hard hats, safety goggles, and harnesses can mitigate the severity of injuries in the event of a fall. Using the right ladder for the job is a key facet of ladder safety as there are various types of ladders, and each serves different purposes.

 

Training on how to safely use, store, and maintain ladders is just as paramount. Comprehensive safety training programs play a critical role in preventing construction accidents and should be part of every organization’s safety culture. Workers need to be equipped with knowledge of weight limits, ladder angles, and proper climbing techniques to prevent missteps.

 

                                                                      

 

In the unfortunate event that you are injured in a ladder-related incident, having an experienced workers’ compensation attorney by your side is invaluable. At Rohan Law, we specialize in this field and can help you navigate the complex claims process, ensuring you receive the full benefits to which you are entitled. Construction accidents can become mired in battles over liability and compensation; a seasoned attorney will handle these disputes, advocate for your rights, and allow you to focus on recovery.

 

During this Ladder Safety Month, and beyond, I urge you to prioritize these considerations in construction environments. You must be sure that your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance is active, demand the correct equipment and safety gear, and reach out to our qualified workers’ compensation attorneys to talk about your case to get you the maximum compensation you rightfully deserve. Call or text us 24/7 at 404.620.2114 for your FREE consultation. Remember we are your best friends on your worst day.