At Advanced Urgent Care & Occupational Medicine we want to make sure you are taking the necessary steps to prevent falls in the workplace. Falling is one of the most common accidents that results in workplace injury. In 2016 the National Safety Council reported, a total of 697 workers that died from falls to a lower level, and 48,060 were injured badly enough to require days off of work. Did you know that you don’t even have to fall from a high level to suffer severe, even fatal, injuries?  In 2016; 134 workers were killed by falls on the same level.

Whether working from a ladder, roof or scaffolding, it’s important to plan ahead, assess the risk and use the right equipment. The NSC suggests first determining if working from a height is absolutely necessary or if there is another way to do the task safely.

  • Discuss the task with coworkers and determine what safety equipment is needed
  • Make sure you are properly trained on how to use the equipment
  • Scan the work area for potential hazards before starting the job
  • Make sure you have level ground to set up the equipment
  • If working outside, check the weather forecast; never work in inclement weather
  • Use the correct tool for the job, and use it as intended
  • Ensure step ladders have a locking device to hold the front and back open
  • Always keep two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand on the ladder
  • Place the ladder on a solid surface and never lean it against an unstable surface
  • A straight or extension ladder should be 1 foot away from the surface it rests on for every 4 feet of height and extend at least 3 feet over the top edge
  • Securely fasten straight and extension ladders to an upper support
  • Wear slip-resistant shoes and don’t stand higher than the third rung from the top
  • Don’t lean or reach while on a ladder, and have someone support the bottom
  • Never use old or damaged equipment; check thoroughly before use

A fall can end in death or disability in a split second, but with a few simple precautions, you and your employees can stay safe at work.

If you or an employee happens to get injured on the job, remember Advanced Urgent Care & Occupational Medicine is here to provide the highest quality of care. Click here to reserve your spot or view all of our locations across the Denver metro area. Walk-ins welcome!