March 2017 marks the first National Ladder Safety Month in the U.S.
Each year there are over 500,000 reported cases of ladder-related injuries and approximately 300 fatalities in the U.S. This represents an estimated annual cost of ladder injuries in the U.S. alone, at a staggering $24 billion. This figure includes work loss, medical, legal, liability, and pain and suffering expenses.
The analysis of data from three 2011 surveillance systems has revealed that the following categories of workers are most at risk to falls from ladders:
- Male
- Hispanic
- Older
- Self-employed
- Those working in smaller establishments
- Construction
- Maintenance
Falls from ladders have long been a serious problem in the workplace, one that needs addressing in order to reduce the number of fatalities and injuries.
Sponsored by the American Ladder Institute, the inaugural National Ladder Safety Month aims to:
- heighten awareness
- reinforce safety training and
- educate homeowners and workers
The campaign’s four weekly focus areas include:
- March 1 – 11: Overall Importance of Ladder Safety
- March 12 – 18: Ladder Safety at Work
- March 19 – 25: Ladder Safety at Home
- March 26 – April 1: Ladder Inspection and Disposal
NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) also offers a comprehensive programme addressing falls in the workplace which includes the award-winning Ladder Safety App.
Do you have plans to raise awareness about ladder safety in your organisation this month? Head to the National Ladder Safety website for more information on how you can get involved in work and at home.
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