The third leading cause of unintentional injury-related death is falls. In 2015, nearly 33,381 people died in falls at home and at work – and for working adults, depending on the industry, falls can be the leading cause of death.

Hazards in the Workplace

In 2014, 660 workers died in falls from a higher level, and 49,210 were injured badly enough to require days off of work. A worker doesn’t have fall from a high level to suffer fatal injuries. While half of all fatal falls in 2014 occurred from 20 feet or lower, 12% were from less than 6 feet, according to Injury Facts 2017®.

Construction workers are most at risk for fatal falls from height – more than seven times the rate of other industries – but falls can happen anywhere, even at a “desk job.”

By the numbers:

Falls are 100% Preventable

Whether working from a ladder, roof or scaffolding, it’s important to plan ahead, assess the risk and use the right equipment. First, determine if working from a height is absolutely necessary or if there is another way to do the task safely.

• Discuss the task with coworkers and determine what safety equipment is needed
• Make sure you are properly trained on how to use the equipment
• Scan the work area for potential hazards before starting the job
• Make sure you have level ground to set up the equipment
• If working outside, check the weather forecast; never work in inclement weather
• Use the correct tool for the job, and use it as intended
• Ensure stepladders have a locking device to hold the front and back open
• Always keep two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand on the ladder
• Place the ladder on a solid surface and never lean it against an unstable surface
• A straight or extension ladder should be 1 foot away from the surface it rests on for every 4 feet of height and extend at least 3 feet over the top edge
• Securely fasten straight and extension ladders to an upper support
• Wear slip-resistant shoes and don’t stand higher than the third rung from the top
• Don’t lean or reach while on a ladder, and have someone support the bottom
• Never use old or damaged equipment; check thoroughly before use

Millions of people are treated in emergency rooms for fall-related injuries every year. A fall can end in death or disability in a split second, but with a few simple precautions, you’ll be sure stay safe at work.