Sign In
2023 Second Alert LTI#06 Fell from ladder and suffered wrist fracture
On the afternoon of the16th May, AC technicians used and A frame Step Ladder to replace a piece of external protective trunking to complete a task . On ascending a supported A Frame step ladder the technician misplaced his footing on the 3rd step as he was rushing to finish the task. On losing his balance he fell backwards and despite his colleague trying to save his fall he landed on the ground with his left arm out right, his left hand impacting the ground causing an indirect fracture to his wrist.
How do you ensure a routine task is not been treated as a low-risk task? How do you determine whether the selected access equipment is suitable for the job? What could happen if a task is started without a RAMS, TRIC card, or pre-job briefing? What factors may cause workers to rush a task, and how can these pressures be managed? When using a ladder, what controls are required to maintain stability and prevent falls? What should you do if you observe a colleague taking a shortcut or working unsafely? How does maintaining three points of contact reduce the likelihood of a fall? Routine tasks can become high-risk when planning, supervision, and safe work controls are overlooked
The task was started without RAMS, TRIC card, or pre-job briefing, resulting in hazards and controls not being adequately assessed. The work was not sufficiently planned or supervised after the decision was made to replace the AC unit, leading to the task being completed using individual judgement rather than a structured safe system of work. An A-frame ladder was selected to access the work location although more suitable access equipment was available, increasing the risk of a fall. The technician ascended the ladder while carrying the trunking cover and did not maintain three points of contact, resulting in loss of balance and a fall from the ladder. The task had become routine and normalised, resulting in safety controls, risk assessment requirements, and procedural compliance being overlooked

Category:Second AlertsDocument Type:Safety
Format:Viewers:16
Download: