Did you know that falls are the number one cause of construction worker (and other related trade worker) fatalities? Falls can also happen in office settings and at home. Whether you work at heights every day or infrequently, your safety during those times is of the utmost importance to Vanir. After all, it only takes one mistake to turn a routine task into a serious injury or fatality.
Here are a few tips to help you prevent falls from ladders and scaffolding:
Ladder Safety
-Always inspect a ladder before using it
-Avoid placing ladders on wet or icy surfaces (surfaces must be stable and level)
-Maintain three points of contact when climbing
-Keep your body near the middle of the step, facing the ladder at all times
-Secure the ladder by locking the metal braces in the center
-Don't overreach
Scaffold Safety
-Wear appropriate shoes, clothing and PPE
-Inspect the scaffold before use
-Mind load limits
-Ensure proper setup
-Know all relevant scaffold regulations and standards
-Don't climb over cross braces or stand on guardrails
-Never use a ladder on a scaffold
-Keep vehicles and heavy equipment clear
-Mind the weather at all times