Worker falls from Ladder

A worker who was installing a security camera on an unsecured ladder sustained multiple injuries after falling approximately 4.5 metres. The worker (whose name is unknown) sustained multiple fractures to his cheekbone, right arm, left leg and dislocated his backbone.

The HSE (Health and Safety Executive) prosecuted and fined the Gwynedd manufacturing company £40 thousand after carrying out an investigation of the incident and found that the business had failed to plan the work at height and failed to provide alternative equipment (such as a MEWP) that would have allowed for safe working at height.

Ensuring that employees working at height are fully qualified and trained professionals is critical, as is selecting the most appropriate equipment type. Ensuring the selected equipment is safe for use is also key to ensuring employees remain safe. One small unnoticed defect could easily cause equipment to fail, resulting in a catastrophic accident which could end in either fatality or injury.

All of the above safeguards are in place to minimise the risk of accidents, injuries or unnecessary deaths.

For more information on this story and others visit the HSE website.