Stepladder injuries can cause your finances to take a tumble
Jill Overmyer
Stepladders are a necessity when it comes to construction projects and home maintenance. But the household staple is responsible for thousands of injuries each year. According to the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society, more than 187,000 Americans visited a hospital in 2009 as the result of stepladder falls and injuries. And if someone gets hurt using your stepladder, you could end up paying for it.
Stepladder liability
If a guest in your home uses a stepladder and gets injured, you could be financially responsible. Say the babysitter finds a stepladder in a closet and uses it to reach for a toy on a high shelf, not realizing the stepladder is broken. She falls, breaks her leg and sues you. If you're found to be negligent, you -- and your home insurance -- may be responsible for damages.
Workplaces also face stepladder liability issues. An employer may be responsible if an employee is injured while using a stepladder. Additionally, customers who use stepladders (even if they're marked "employees only") and fall or get hurt can sue your business for damages.
Stepladder safety
Whether you're changing a light bulb or reaching for something on a high shelf, you can stay safe by following these safety precautions from the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) -- and reduce the chance of an accident by encouraging others to follow them as well:
- Employers should post a set of safety rules and guidelines for using stepladders. Make sure all employees who will be using stepladders are properly trained.
- Always inspect the stepladder before you use it. Make sure there are no loose rungs or bolts. If the ladder appears to be damaged or wobbly, make sure it is labeled as damaged or properly disposed of.
- Never place a stepladder on unstable ground or anything other than the floor.
- Check the maximum weight allowed on the stepladder before climbing on it, making sure to take into account anything you may be carrying.
- Store stepladders away from customers and unauthorized employees when not in use. Make sure they are not easily accessible.
The next layer of protection is the right insurance coverage. Businesses should carry workers' compensation and general liability insurance, which will cover medical expenses, lost wages and judgments against you as a business owner. Homeowners should have liability coverage that protects them financially if anyone is injured in their homes.
