The main causes of deaths and injuries on scaffolds are scaffold failure, being struck by objects, electrocution, and slipping or falling. Scaffold failure includes unsecured or improperly installed scaffolds that collapse or fall. Being struck by objects occurs when tools or materials fall from above. Electrocution can happen when scaffolds come into contact with power lines or electrical sources. Slipping or falling is the most common cause, often resulting from not properly using fall protection equipment or falling from even low heights. Other contributing factors include employer negligence, poor scaffold construction, lack of guardrails, and environmental hazards such as wind or slippery conditions.
Four Major Causes Summarized
- Scaffold failure: including collapse or structural failure.
- Struck by object: falling tools, materials, or debris.
- Electrocution: contact with electrical currents or power lines.
- Slipping or falling: falls from scaffolds, often due to improper or no fall protection.
Additional Contributing Factors
- Employer negligence, such as lack of training and poor safety enforcement.
- Poor scaffold design or construction not meeting safety standards.
- Lack of guardrails or overhead protection.
- Environmental dangers like weather or unstable ground conditions.
Common Injuries Resulting
- Lacerations, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, paralysis, electric shock, and internal injuries.
Falls from scaffolds are a leading cause of deaths and injuries, and safety adherence, proper scaffold assembly, and use of protective equipment are critical to preventing accidents.
