Construction Site Accidents – Scaffold and Ladder Accidents

The highest number of accidents - almost 10 per cent on construction sites - is falls involving scaffolding and ladders. In fact, one third of the annual fatalities on construction sites can be attributed to falls. However, the shocking fact is that most of these injuries and fatalities are unnecessary. With a little foresight on the construction site, these hazards can be avoided.

There is a range of reasons why a fall can occur at a construction site. Many falls are attributed to negligent construction and maintenance of scaffolding. Other reasons could be unstable ladders and/or scaffolding, lack of use or misuse of safety equipment or simply human error. However, studies have shown that many falls on construction sites can be avoided with the proper use of guardrails, safety nets, covers and fall stopping systems.

Most scaffolding accidents are a result of bad construction or lack of maintenance. Many fatal scaffolding accidents are due to the planks or supports giving way; this is also the most common cause of non-fatal injuries on scaffolds as well. Also, many injuries and fatalities involve employees being hit by objects falling from above. The amazing thing is that many of these accidents and fatalities can be avoided with proper safety policies and maintenance on the construction site.