As we know from recent statistics published by the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) that one in every four fatal work related accidents in Ireland occurred in the construction sector.  Out of these deaths the most common cause of employees’ deaths is falling from height. These of course are so much more than statistics and each death leaves a trail of grief and devastation behind and we are conscious that each one of these deaths is a tragedy for each family. Employers must therefore be very careful and carry out risk assessments including the need for employees to work at height and whether that work can be carried out safely as well as ensuring employees have the right training and experience.

Use of ladders in the workplace

The Health and Safety Authority have looked very closely at ladders being used in the workplace and advise that they may only be used in certain situations and only for the shortest possible time and avoided if at all possible.  Alternative height work equipment such as scaffolding, moveable stairs, or mobile platforms should be used instead of ladders.  The employer has responsibility to ensure that the ground surface on which the ladder is placed is without defect and can support the ladder and the weight, that the ladder is positioned so that it is stable and that it is used in such a way that a secure handhold is available to employees when they are lifting a load.

Recent cases we have seen

An employee was using an A-Frame ladder which unfortunately snapped in two and the gentleman concerned fell and suffered a skull fracture and there was a significant compensation settlement made.  In another case the employer was found not to have provided with employee with a safe system of work when an employee was descending a ladder and his hand became trapped between the wall and the ladder suffering a significant fracture to his left hand which caused permanent restriction and an appropriate amount of compensation was paid by the employer’s insurance company.

Our personal injury compensation claims solicitors

If you have suffered injury from a ladder in the workplace you may be able to make a claim for compensation. It is important you seek advice as soon as possible to protect your legal rights. We believe in putting you our client first and we are committed to achieving the best result possible while all the time remaining sensitive to your needs. Please feel free to reach out to us below and will be pleased to discuss your case and offer free and no obligation advice.

To contact one of our personal injury solicitors please call 0818 888 555 or WhatsApp/call 087 398 7386 or complete our online enquiry form