Whether you’re painting indoors or outdoors, there’s a good chance you’ll rely on a ladder to complete the task. Even if you have many years of experience standing on a ladder to paint, there’s always a chance of an accident.
These three tips can help you prevent trouble:
- Choose the right type of ladder: For example, if you’re painting indoors, a stepladder will almost always work. However, if you’re outdoors, an extension ladder is often necessary.
- Be careful of where you place the ladder: Your ladder should always be placed on firm and level ground, both indoors and outdoors. For instance, if you place your ladder in a mulch bed around a home or building, it may not provide the traction necessary to keep the feet in place.
- Beware of traffic: Never set up a ladder in close proximity to vehicular or pedestrian traffic. Doing so increases the risk of someone or something bumping into it while in use.
If you’re injured in a ladder accident at work, regardless of the cause, report the incident to your employer. Also, don’t hesitate to seek treatment. Depending on the type of injuries, you may need to call 911 for transportation to a local hospital.
Once you understand your injuries and prognosis, you should consult with your medical team to learn more about the recovery process. It may be necessary to take time away from work.
Find out about the process for filing a claim for workers’ compensation benefits. If for some reason you receive a denial, learn more about your legal rights and how to file an appeal.