Cable Installer Injured in NJ Fall
Job sites can be dangerous, especially when ladders are involved. One wrong move can lead to a nasty fall.
This recently happened in New Jersey. A man was injured while working in Ridgewood. Emergency workers responded to the incident, which happened on the afternoon of September 18.
The 46-year-old man, a cable installer, fell from a ladder for unknown reasons. He fell approximately 20 feet in front of 251 Manor Road. The man was taken to Valley Hospital to be treated for non-life threatening injuries.
Falls from Ladders
Ladder-related accidents are a leading cause of fall injuries in the United States. Thousands of people are hospitalized each year due to ladder falls, with construction workers and DIY homeowners among the most at risk.
Common causes include:
- Improper ladder placement (such as placing the ladder on unstable surfaces or uneven ground).
- Using the wrong ladder (too short or not rated for the task).
- Overreaching or leaning while working.
- Climbing while carrying tools or materials instead of using a tool belt.
- Defective or poorly maintained ladders.
- Rushing or not following safety protocols.
Ladder falls can result in a host of injuries. Broken bones, particularly involving the arms, legs, ribs, are common. So are head and brain injuries, back and spinal cord injuries, sprains, bruises, or internal injuries. In severe cases, a ladder fall can result in permanent disability or fatality.
After a fall:
- Seek medical care immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
- Document the accident (photos, witness accounts, ladder condition).
- Report workplace accidents to supervisors right away.
- Consider consulting a lawyer, particularly if negligence, defective equipment, or unsafe working conditions played a role.
Ladder Safety Tips
Keep safe with these tips:
- Inspect before every use. Look for cracks, dents, bent rungs, or loose screws. Check the feet for worn-out rubber grips. Ensure the spreaders and locks on step ladders are working properly.
- Set up properly. Place the ladder on firm, level ground. Use boards or stabilizers if needed. Ensure the ladder is fully extended and locked before climbing. Keep the area around the base clear of tools, cords, or debris.
- Climb safely. Maintain three points of contact at all times (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand). Always face the ladder when climbing up or down. Climb slowly and never carry heavy tools in your hands. Use a tool belt or hoist instead.
- Follow best practices. Wear non-slip shoes with good grip. Only one person on the ladder at a time. Store ladders indoors, upright, and away from heat and moisture to prevent warping. Take breaks to reduce fatigue.
Contact a New Jersey Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Workplace accidents are often just that: accidents. However, there are situations in which employers can be held liable.
Injured in a workplace accident? Get the assistance you need from a Morristown work-related accident attorney from The Law Offices of Michael P. Burakoff. We can help you understand your rights to compensation. To schedule a consultation, fill out the online form or call (973) 455-1567.
Source:
patch.com/new-jersey/ridgewood/cable-installer-hospitalized-after-falling-ladder-ridgewood
