Fatal incident illustrates dangers of falls from ladders

Ladders are tools utilized by a variety of different workplaces in Pennsylvania and across the country every single day. Despite their usefulness, however, they come with risks of injuries suffered due to falls. Unfortunately, the dangers of falls from ladders were recently illustrated in an out-of-state incident that resulted in a fatality.

Emergency responders were called to the scene just before 7 p.m. on a day in May. Reports indicate that a 37-year-old man was as high as 80 feet in the air when he fell to the ground. Shortly after arriving on the scene, emergency responders determined that the man had passed away.

The victim, part of a crew who work for Tradesman International, was working on a construction project for Kimtek Corporation. Many details regarding the incident are unclear, including whether the man had access to and was using appropriate safety equipment. The incident remains under investigation by both local police and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. If OSHA finds that health or safety standards were violated in the events leading up to the accident, it could issue citations and/or fines against the company.

Unfortunately, falls from ladders can have deadly consequences, as this recent accident illustrates. The family of the deceased victim are left facing the costs of an unexpected funeral in addition to lost wages. Many in Pennsylvania who lose a loved one in such a manner struggle to manage their expenses. While they may be entitled to workers' compensation insurance benefits, the process can be complicated. Fortunately, there are professionals with experience who can help them seek fair compensation.

Source: al.com, "Two men, 37 and 83, die from unrelated falls in Jefferson County", Carol Robinson, May 10, 2017

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