Contracting companies and the owners of the buildings on which they work have a responsibility to maintain and secure all scaffolds, ladders and corresponding equipment, so injuries on and around scaffolds and ladders do not occur. Those who are injured as a result of incidents occurring on and around scaffolds and ladders have a right to contact an experienced Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia scaffold accident lawyer for assistance in recovering compensation. Contracting companies and building owners should take all precautions to utilize the highest levels of safety for those who work and walk around scaffolds and ladders.
Scaffold and Ladder Safety: A Checklist
- Use sturdy ladders and scaffolds on bases that are firm
- Inspect every ladder and scaffold before use
- Keep grease and other slippery substances away from ladders and scaffolds
- Never use ladders or scaffolds that have structural defects
- Tie all ladders down securely at the top and bottom before use
- Wear shoes with rubber soles when using ladders and scaffolds
- Block off areas around scaffolds and ladders from pedestrians
- Never stand on the top two steps of ladders
- Do not place more weight on a ladder than is recommended by the manufacturer
- Set the caster brakes of a scaffold before climbing onto the device
- Do not set ladders on top of scaffolds
- Install guard rails and boards for toes on scaffolds that will be used more than five feet off the ground
- Do not place tools or other equipment near the edges of scaffold platforms
A Construction Company’s Responsibility: Scaffold and Ladder Safety
Many construction site accidents that involve scaffolds or ladders are due to the failure of a contracting company, supervisor, worker, building owner or building worker to use care when maintaining, installing and using such equipment. If these companies properly train workers and maintain equipment, they can cut down on the number of incidents involving scaffolds and ladders.
It is the responsibility of such organizations to properly train those who are to use scaffolds and ladders on the appropriate methods for maintenance and installation. It is further the responsibility of such organizations to retire equipment that is not functioning properly or that has defective parts. An experienced Maryland, Virginia and Washington DC scaffold accident attorney can help you determine who is responsible for your injuries.
Contact a Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia ladder accident attorney at Koonz, McKenney, Johnson, DePaolis & Lightfoot, L.L.P., for assistance with your scaffold or ladder issue. |
