Six workers died from ladder falls since 2012: WorkSafeBC

WorkSafeBC is hoping for extra caution from B.C. residents using ladders this holiday season.

The workplace safety agency reported that six workers died in B.C. between 2012 and 2016 because of ladder falls, and that 22 serious injuries were reported in Prince George during the same time period. In response, WorkSafeBC has released a series of new ladder safety videos on YouTube in hopes of encouraging workers, employers and homeowners to use ladders safely, both at home while decorating, and in their everyday working life.

Statistics released by WorkSafeBC indicate that the timeloss count related to ladder falls in Prince George has been decreas- ing. Time-loss counts refer to the number of days an employee is unable to work because of, and receives compensation for, an injury sustained at work. In 2012, Prince George workplaces experienced a time-loss count of 22 related to ladder injuries, while the count shrank to 11 by 2016.

“Last year, more than 1,000 workers were seriously injured (in B.C.) in falls from height, including while using step ladders, extension ladders and scaffolding,” said Dan Strand, Director of Prevention Field Services for WorkSafeBC, in a news release.

“The new videos and our ladder safety resources illustrate how the right ladder, the correct positioning and hazard assessments could prevent a life-changing serious injury or death.”

The videos can be seen at worksafebc.com.