CASE STUDY – LADDER SAFETY – RETAIL
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310-AXB-01-IGDO © 2020, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | wsps.ca
3. Conclusion
The company came to a number of conclusions:
The result of the incident investigation determined that the box was half full and as the
employee was carrying it down the ladder the weight shifted causing them to lose their
balance. They were unable to maintain three points of control and as a result they fell.
The employee shouldn't have been carrying a box while on a ladder although there were
no other alternatives.
Determined that not all employees were trained on ladder safety procedures.
They did not have the proper inspection process for ladders or incident investigations
procedures.
Confirmed that the first aid responder had the appropriate training and the injured worker.
4. Recommendations
The following recommendations were implemented:
The company updated their procedures for storing boxes on shelves.
Instead of using an extending step-ladder they have purchased a mobile ladder
stand/mobile ladder platform. They determined that the manufacturer allows handling
while using this particular equipment and objects being lifted are not to impair the ability
to climb/descend safely and maintain balance and does not block the field of view.
All employees were trained on manual materials handling and usage of ladders.
Redesigned the stockroom so frequently accessed items do not need a ladder to get to.
Sales were analyzed and extra staff were assigned to peak times to prevent rushing.
Boxes that weighed over 20 kg were separated into two boxes where possible.
The company trained all employees on identifying hazards.
The company trained supervisors and managers on incident investigations.
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