Every March, National Ladder Safety Month shines a spotlight on one of the most overlooked yet dangerous workplace risks: ladders. For Falcon Trading, a trusted PPE supplier in East London, this campaign is an opportunity to reinforce the importance of safe ladder use, injury prevention, and compliance with safety regulations.
In South Africa, ladders account for nearly one-third of all work-at-height incidents, making them one of the most common causes of workplace injuries. According to FEM statistics, falls from different levels (including ladders) represent over 10% of workplace accidents. Typical injuries on duty (IOD) include fractures and sprains from falls, head injuries due to lack of helmets, musculoskeletal injuries from improper ladder handling, and cuts or abrasions from unstable or damaged ladders.
The first step in prevention is proper inspection. Ladders should be checked for cracks, loose rungs, or corrosion before use. Positioning is equally important – ladders must be placed on stable, level ground and secured to prevent slipping. Workers should follow the three-point contact rule, maintaining two hands and one foot (or two feet and one hand) on the ladder at all times. Load limits must never be exceeded, and training is essential to ensure workers understand safe ladder use and fall prevention techniques.
South Africa’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) requires employers to provide adequate protection for employees working at height. This means equipping workers with certified PPE that meets SANS standards. Safety helmets are critical to protect against head injuries from falls or dropped tools. Non-slip footwear helps prevent slipping on ladder rungs, while gloves improve grip and protect hands from cuts or abrasions. For tasks above two meters, fall arrest harnesses are mandatory to comply with fall protection regulations. High-visibility clothing is also essential, ensuring workers remain visible in busy construction or industrial environments. Together, these items form a comprehensive safety package that reduces risk and ensures compliance.
National Ladder Safety Month is more than awareness; it’s a call to action. By combining proper ladder use, preventative training, and compliant PPE, businesses can significantly reduce workplace injuries.
Falcon Trading is committed to equipping workers with the right gear and knowledge to climb safely, every time.