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Is a scaffold safer than a ladder?

On Behalf of | Mar 31, 2022 | Workers' Compensation |

For workers who have to work at heights, there are two general tactics that can be used. The first is simply to set up a ladder at the site and climb to the desired height. The second is to set up a scaffold system that takes a lot longer to put together, but that gives the worker an elevated platform that they can stand on.

Though scaffold systems are larger and more difficult to set up, meaning they are often not used for quick jobs, they do provide some benefits. Are they going to keep you safer than if you had to climb up and down the ladder?

It is said to be both safer and easier to use

There are a lot of advantages to using a scaffold system, which makes it easier to work at heights and helps to keep you safer while you do so. The first reason for this is that there’s a wide platform to stand on, so it’s simply easier to keep your balance and less likely that you’re going to slip.

Another benefit of a scaffold system is that it gives you a lot of extra space that you can utilize for tools and materials. Many ladder falls happen because people are trying to hold these tools and materials in their hands while ascending or descending the ladder. You don’t have to do this with the scaffold, so you always have your hands free to hold on.

Accidents can still happen

Whenever you’re working at heights, however, it’s very important to remember that accidents can and do happen. If you get injured on the job, then you need to know how to seek workers’ compensation