Ladders

A ladder is mainly used as a device to gain secure access to a work area. Sometimes it is also used as a work station, but only under limited circumstances. Accidents at construction sites involving ladders include the worker falling, usually from a substantial height, or the worker dropping something while climbing (see falling debris). The US Consumer Products Safety Commission reports that roughly 165,000 people in the United States are injured on a yearly basis using ladders. Falls from ladders account for almost 700 fatalities per year in the various employment industries, making up approximately 15 percent of all occupational fatalities.

Construction workers often use ladders at great heights and under dangerous conditions. Almost all ladder accidents are caused by human error, and many of these accidents are not the fault of the victim. A large number of ladder accidents are produced by a defective ladder, either in its initial design or typical wear and tear. In other cases, the ladder itself may be in perfect condition but the wrong ladder was chosen for the job. Construction tasks vary significantly and ladders are generally not meant to be used in every situation. For example, the ladder may lack slip-resistant feet on a slippery surface. In other situations, the wrong type of ladder is provided by the employer. This may result in the worker erroneously using a step ladder when a platform ladder would be much more appropriate. Additionally, each ladder has a height limit and a weight limit that should never be exceeded. A third subset of ladder accidents relates to improper use of the ladder due to a lack of training. It is the employer's responsibility to ensure that all workers are familiar with basic ladder safety techniques. For example, the ladder must be placed on firm, level ground. Also, the climber should maintain three points of contact with the ladder at all times.

The Boston personal injury lawyers at Bellotti Law Group, P.C. have successfully handled hundreds of construction accident cases over many years. Contact our Boston, Cambridge or Quincy office today at 617-225-2100 for a FREE evaluation of your case.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has a very long list of guidelines and regulations that all employers or contractors are required to follow relating to the safe use of ladders. The list is extensive and includes instructions on maximum height and weight allowable, manufacturing specifications (materials, shape and size of the rungs, etc.), inspection procedures, and so on. While the ultimate responsibility falls on the contractor to provide the proper ladder and for adequate training, third-party liability may also fall on the manufacturer if a product defect is discovered. The result of a fall may include broken bones, severe head injuries, paralysis, or even death.

At Bellotti Law Group, P.C., we will investigate any potential source of liability to help you recover. In many cases, through a personal injury claim you will be entitled to more than just worker's compensation. Talk to one of our experienced construction accident attorneys today.