If you work in the construction trade, you know that you will need to climb a ladder or stand on scaffolding at some point. Even other industries, such as electricians, cable installers and other workers must climb ladders on a regular basis.
A fall from a ladder or scaffolding can be extremely dangerous, leading to severe injury and even death. When the injury occurs at the workplace, you may be concerned that filing a worker’s compensation claim could cost you your job, but you are unable to work and provide for your family financially.
Dangers of Ladders and Scaffolding
Although ladders and scaffolding alone are not dangerous, people often fail to take proper safety precautions when using them, either because they are uncomfortable or because the company they work for failed to provide them. The United States Occupational Safety & Health Administration requires that a safety harness be used whenever an employee is more than six feet off the ground, which often happens when using ladders and scaffolding.
The reason for this requirement is that a fall from this height can lead to permanent injury. In addition, footing is often not as steady on ladders or scaffolding as it is on a solid surface.
Common Injuries Caused By Ladders or Scaffolding
Although there are many injuries that can occur from a fall from scaffolding or a ladder as well as being hit by objects while you are on the ladder, some are more common than others including:
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Paralysis from spine and neck injuries
- Sprains and strains
- Traumatic brain injury
Ladder or Scaffolding Accident Causes
In addition to the many injuries that can occur in a ladder or scaffolding accident, there are just as many reasons why an accident leading to a ladder or scaffolding work injury may occur. Some of the most common are:
Common wear and tear
Defects in material
Lack of safety equipment
Wet or slick ladder rings
Wet or slippery scaffolding planks
Workers compensation for Ladders and Scaffolding Work Injury
If you are injured in a ladder or scaffolding accident at work, under Pennsylvania law you are entitled to workers compensation. This includes payment for lost wages, medical bills and other expenses you may incur due to your injuries. Even if you or a co-worker were partially or completely at fault for the accident, your employer must provide you with workers compensation and they cannot fire you for filing a claim.
If you or a loved one has suffered a ladder or scaffolding work injury, contact Lundy Law today to learn what rights you may have. Hiring an attorney does not mean you plan to sue your employer. Under Pennsylvania law, you are not permitted to sue for a workplace injury in most cases. The attorneys at Lundy Law will simply look out for your best interests and get you the compensation you deserve. Arrange for your no obligation consultation by calling 1-800-Lundy Law or completing the easy form on our website.
