WorkSafeBC urges workers and employers to prioritize safety while working from heights during the holiday season
As the holiday season approaches, WorkSafeBC advises workers and employers across all industries to take additional precautions when working at heights. Tasks such as installing festive decorations, performing outdoor construction, or maintaining property during the winter months can present fall hazards, especially in wet or icy conditions.
Falls from heights are a significant cause of workplace injuries in B.C. In 2023, WorkSafeBC accepted 4,520 claims for fall-related injuries, nearly 35 percent of which were classified as serious. Tragically, 21 workers lost their lives due to falls from heights during the same year.
While falls from heights occur across all sectors, the service and construction sectors see the highest number of injuries, accounting for 32 percent and 27 percent of claims, respectively.
“Primary causes of falls include improper ladder use, unguarded stairs, and inadequate or improper use of fall protection,” notes Suzana Prpic, director of Prevention Field Services at WorkSafeBC. “These risks can be mitigated by implementing appropriate safety protocols and ensuring the proper use and maintenance of equipment.”
Engaging workers in risk management to prevent falls
Employers are responsible for ensuring proper planning, supervision, training, and the use of fall protection to minimize or eliminate the risk of falls from ladders, structures, buildings, roofs, vehicles, and scaffolds.
“Managing risk in your workplace means identifying potential hazards to your workers and ensuring reasonable steps are taken to prevent harm,” says Prpic.
A key component of risk management is involving workers in identifying risk factors. As the individuals performing these tasks daily, they offer valuable insights into potential hazards and practical solutions. WorkSafeBC encourages employers to engage workers and joint health and safety committees early in the planning process to create effective and comprehensive risk management plans.
It is important to note that during the winter months, icy and wet conditions contribute to an increase in injuries due to falls. Changing workplace conditions, like the weather, means that risk assessments must be revisited on a regular basis.
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About WorkSafeBC
WorkSafeBC engages workers and employers to prevent injury, disease, and disability in B.C. When work-related injuries or diseases occur, WorkSafeBC provides compensation and support to people in their recovery, rehabilitation, and safe return to work. We serve 2.7 million workers and 280,000 employers across B.C.
For more information, contact:
Media Relations, WorkSafeBC
Email: media@worksafebc.com
Tel: 604.276.5157