Falls from ladders are one of the most common injuries that construction workers and others in the industry sustain. Because using a ladder seems like common sense, many employers fail to properly train their workers in ladder safety.
Fortunately, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health can augment that training with its ladder safety phone application. The app is available for both iPhone and Android users, and it uses audio and visual signals to aid workers who must use extension ladders.
One of the most common injuries occurs when the ladder angle is set too steeply, which can cause it to fall back or slide away during use. Alternatively, if it is set too shallow, the bottom can slide out. Regardless of whether a person is on the ladder or standing under it when it is knocked or falls over, injuries are usually severe enough that they require emergency medical attention. Experts say that the new phone app is a good way to keep workers safe as long as employers encourage them to download it. The app checks the ladder's angle when it is positioned and provides several helpful tips for proper ladder use. There is also a guide for inspecting, using, accessorizing, and selecting extension ladders. The app is a helpful tool, but it’s also important for employers to conduct ladder safety training. Remind workers of the following safety tips:
For some additional information on ladder safely, check out these 16 tips. Comments are closed.
|
Categories
All
Archives
February 2021
While every effort has been taken in compiling this information to ensure that its contents are totally accurate, neither the publisher nor the author can accept liability for any inaccuracies or change circumstances of any information herein or for the consequences of any reliance placed upon it. This publication is distributed on the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or other professional advice or services. Readers should always seek professional advice before entering into any commitments.
|
Iowa
4200 University Ave, Suite 200 West Des Moines, IA 50266-5945 |
Wisconsin
8500 Greenway Blvd., Suite 201 Middleton, WI 53562 |