Ladders and Construction Accidents: Dangers to Workers
We at Chanfrau & Chanfrau have built a strong reputation here in Central Florida. This is because we take all sorts of injury accidents serious, from major auto collision litigation to addressing premises liability lawsuits and major slip and falls. We want to hold all negligent parties accountable for any accident that leads to preventable injury. This is especially true of accidents that take place at construction sites given how serious they can be. One major issue to consider is falls that are the result of ladder safety problems, which we want to look at briefly right now.
OSHA Violations and Ladder Accidents
It should be noted that fall protection problems and issues with ladder safety are both among the top ten frequently violated Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) violations from 2013.
Looking at the OSHA safety recommendations, ladder safety involves basic, common sense concerns with regard to the maximum load a ladder can handle, the angle of the ladder, the state of the rungs on the ladder, and various ways of preventing slipping hazards.
Common Causes of Ladder Accidents
Given the OSHA standards above, some of the most common causes of ladder accidents are as follows:
- Exceeding the maximum recommended weight capacity of the ladder
- Using ladders that are unstable or poorly secured
- Slippery materials on or near the ladder
- Damaged ladders being used at workplaces
- Standing on the topmost part of the ladder
- Lack of supervision/assistance by other workers
Common Injuries as a Result of Ladder Accidents
Some injuries that may occur as a result of a ladder fall include:
- Contusions
- Lacerations
- Sprains
- Broken or fractured bones
- Head injuries/concussions
- Internal organ injury
The severity of the injury can increase depending on the height of the ladder and the fall.
Injuries to Bystanders from Ladder Falls
While construction workers can obviously be injured by ladder safety issues, so can bystanders and passersby. These people may be struck by falling workers, for instance, or the ladder my fall on them if the ladder is being used on an unsecured portion of a worksite.
In addition to following basic safety standards with regard to ladders per se, it's imperative that construction sites also ensure the safety of people who do not work on the premises by providing safe walkways and passages that will not be affected by anything that should fall from an industrial workplace.
Fighting for Just Compensation
If you have been injured as a result of a ladder accident, it's important that you speak with our legal team today. Our attorneys will fight for you whether you are an injured employee or are an innocent bystander who has been impacted by negligence on the part of a construction company. We will help you receive just compensation for any injuries that you have sustained and hardships that come as a result of the injury or injuries.
Assistance in Workers' Compensation Disputes
In addition to seeking compensation from negligent parties, we can also help employees who are denied workers' comp for a legitimate injury claim. You should receive the compensation to which you are entitled in order to cover medical bills and other expenses until you are able to return to work.
Contact our Personal Injury Lawyers About Your Case
For more information about ladder injuries and other kinds of construction accidents, be sure to contact our personal injury law firm today. The lawyers of Chanfrau & Chanfrau will help you receive just compensation for any injuries sustained or hardships that have been experienced.