WorkSafeBC warns of ladder injuries ahead of holidays

The provincial agency promoting the prevention of workplace injury is urging British Columbians to be careful when using a ladder around the holidays.

WorkSafeBC says that ladder-related injuries increase at homes and workplaces during December.

According to the agency, 485 people on average across the province are hospitalized each holiday season for falls from ladders or scaffolding.

“Last year in 2024, we accepted 876 loss claims for injuries relating to falls from ladders,” said Suzana Prpic, WorkSafeBC’s senior manager of prevention services.

“309 of those were very serious and included fractures, contusions, and strains.”

She adds that in 2023, 21 workers lost their lives due to falls from heights.

Outdoor chores, such as hanging up holiday lights and cleaning gutters, can be especially hazardous in cold or icy conditions.

“Primary causes of falls include improper ladder use, unguarded stairs, and inadequate or improper use of fall protection,” Prpic said.

She urges British Columbians to check for power lines, wear slip-resistant shoes, set ladders on firm ground, and avoid climbing while holding heavy items.

“Make sure that you’ve got the right ladder for the work that you’ll be doing. Consider safer alternatives if there’s scaffolding in place or if there are elevated work platforms in place,” she told 1130 NewsRadio.