Council of Construction Associations

WorkSafeBC releases ladder safety videos

WorkSafeBC releases ladder safety videos

VANCOUVER — WorkSafeBC is reminding workers how to properly use ladders with a new series of safety videos.

The six videos remind workers, employers and homeowners how to use ladders safely, both on the job and at home while setting up Christmas decorations.

WorkSafeBC statistics show that falls from ladders are a common cause of injury.

“Last year, more than 1,000 workers were seriously injured in falls from height, including while using step ladders, extension ladders and scaffolding,” says Dan Strand, director of prevention field services for WorkSafeBC, in a statement. “The new videos and our ladder safety resources illustrate how the right ladder, the correct positioning and hazard assessments could prevent a life-changing serious injury or death.”

Six workers died from ladder falls across all industries in B.C. between 2012 and 2016. There were also 4,920 accepted time-loss claims from ladder falls, more than 1,600 of which were serious injuries.

WorkSafeBC offered several tips to prevent a fall.

First, the right ladder should be selected for the right job. It should be long enough to clear one metre above the upper landing.

The legs of the ladder should be placed on sturdy, level ground. Wind, rain and snow are also hazards one should be mindful of. The ladder should also be inspected for cracks or loose rungs.

While on the ladder, three points of contact should be maintained while climbing. This could be two feet and a hand or two hands and a foot. One should also avoid carrying large, heavy items while on the ladder.

The top two rungs should not be used to stand on and more than one worker shouldn’t ever be on the ladder. Before climbing a ladder, check for powerlines and ensure they are at least three metres away before starting work.