Falling from the Office Ladder
Falling from an office ladder is common practice. When you use a ladder to reach those hard to reach items you need to know the associated risks. Here are a few simple tips that will have you looking forward to your next fall:
- Anticipate the fall. In fact, plan on falling off the ladder. You will fall so be prepared. As soon as you feel the ladder or stepstool give and you begin to lose your balance, be ready to hit the ground.
- Try to grab fixtures or decorations that are close. Lighting fixtures, decorations, hooks, and wires will easily support your body weight. Grabbing a light fixture will give you enough time to call for help. If no one is home or can hear your shouts—prepare for impact. Let go and drop to the ground.
- You will need to correctly position your body. As you begin to fall, twist your body so your back is to the ground. It is always best to land flat on your back. The back of your head is hard and can take a real blow. Try to let your head take the brunt of the impact.
- NEVER curl into a ball. Tucking in your arms and legs and curling into a ball is a bad idea. Doing this may minimize the chance of breaking any limbs, but is not recommended. Don’t be afraid of a high fall. The longer the fall, the more time you will have to prepare for impact.
- Never try to land on your feet. Leg and ankle fractures are long-term injuries, and should be avoided. It is always best to land flat on your back with your head taking the brunt of the impact.
- Immediately get up and shake off the fall. Many people fear getting back on the ladder after experiencing a serious fall, but that is a mistake. Get up and finish the job. Don’t be afraid of falling—plan on it—practice it.
