While using a ladder outdoors poses a safety risk during any season, doing so is especially dangerous during the fall when the ground is covered with wet leaves or precipitation. Still, there are many autumn jobs that require one to use a ladder, such as cleaning out gutters, picking fruit in an orchard or working on a construction site. If you must use a ladder for one of these duties this autumn, reduce your chances of getting hurt by following these tips from our Bucks County workers compensation lawyer:
- Always conduct a safety check – Before using a ladder for a job, you should always take the time to inspect the ladder for damage and missing parts. Look for cracked metal, dents that may make the ladder unstable and missing or broken rivets.
- Evaluate the area before setting up your ladder – Once you have confirmed your ladder is safe to use, your next step is to examine the area where you plan to place the ladder. Make sure to clear the area of any debris such as rocks or leaves to make the surface as flat and non-slippery as possible. Furthermore, check that the ground is firm and the ladder’s legs will not sink in when you step onto it. If you’re using a tripod ladder, it’s best to place it at a 75 degree angle.
- Be conscious of your footwear and attire – Before stepping onto a ladder, always be sure you’re wearing shoes with non-slip soles. And if your shoes are muddy, wash and dry them off before climbing the ladder to reduce your chances of slipping and falling. As for your clothing, don’t wear anything loose fitting that might cause you to get trapped on something while you’re working on the ladder.
- Climb & use the ladder properly – When ascending and descending the ladder, face towards it and hold onto the side rails, not the rungs. If you’re going to be using tools, carry them in a belt so your hands are free. While on the ladder, always maintain at least three points of contact (one hand and both feet) and do not go above the highest safe step recommended by the ladder manufacturer. If you cannot comfortably perform a job without reaching past either side rail of the ladder, stop what you’re doing and move the ladder to a more appropriate spot.
Using a ladder for outdoor work during autumn can be dangerous, but following the steps recommended above by our workers compensation lawyer in Bucks County will mitigate the risks associated with this activity.
Ladder Accident? Let Us Represent You
Unfortunately, following ladder safety practices doesn’t entirely guarantee you won’t experience a ladder accident. Even when you take every possible precaution, there is still a chance you could lose your footing and fall. What’s worse, many ladder incidents occur due to electrical injuries or the person being struck by an object while using the ladder.
If you have been the victim of a ladder accident while on the job and you believe that you are entitled to compensation, contact Gary P. Heslin. As the workers compensation lawyer Bucks County trusts, he will thoroughly review your case to determine who should be held liable for the incident. Then, he will get to work helping you win the compensation you are owed for your injuries.
To schedule a free consultation with our Bucks County workers compensation attorney, call (215) 332-0300. And for information on staying safe while doing autumn yard work, read our recent blog post. We wish you a safe autumn but urge you to remember that we will be here to fight for your rights in the event you are injured.