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Recent local workplace fatalities in have once again highlighted the dangers workers face on job sites — especially when it comes to falls from ladders and scaffolding and slips or trips. These fatal falls are not only tragic but also often preventable. With the right protocols and training, businesses can reduce the risk of serious injuries and help ensure that every worker makes it home safely at the end of the day. The dangers are real!

Ladder-related accidents are particularly common. The CDC reports that 43% of fatal falls in the last decade involved ladders. Improper ladder setup, damaged equipment, and lack of proper training contribute to these tragedies.

Scaffold accidents are also a concern. Common causes include the absence of guardrails, overloading, and unsafe access points. OSHA requires that scaffolding be capable of supporting four times the intended load and that workers be trained in scaffold safety.

Every life matters!​

Behind every workplace injury is a family, a business, and a community affected by loss. By investing in safety training, regular equipment inspections, and enforcing proper protocols, employers can make a meaningful difference. Safety isn’t just a regulation, it’s a responsibility.

Prevention starts with preparation. Here are several steps businesses can take to prevent falls and injuries:

Ladder safety best practices

  • Use the right ladder for the job—including height and duty rating.
  • Inspect ladders regularly for cracks, missing parts, or rust.
  • Set it up properly—extension ladders should be placed at a 75° angle.
  • Maintain three points of contact (two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand) while climbing.

Scaffolding safety essentials

  • Install guardrails on all open sides.
  • Require harnesses and secure tie-offs for employees working on scaffolding.
  • Never exceed the load limit – including workers, tools, and materials.
  • Ensure safe access, such as ladders or stair towers.
  • Provide scaffold safety training to all employees. 

Preventing slips, trips and falls

  • Keep work areas clean and dry.
  • Use non-slip mats and footwear.
  • Ensure good lighting in stairwells and hallways.
  • Mark uneven surfaces and repair damaged flooring promptly.

Resources for employers

Beacon Mutual, the leading provider of workers’ compensation insurance, offers safety training and resources for businesses in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut. Beacon’s blog shares industry-specific safety tips, including articles on ladder safety, roofing safety, fall prevention, and slip and trip hazards.

Partnering for a safer tomorrow

For small businesses in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut, ensuring workplace safety can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Beacon Mutual has over 30 years of experience helping New England businesses protect their employees and reduce injuries through proactive safety programs, expert training, and personalized risk assessments.

Beacon offers the tools and support you need to create a culture of safety. From free safety resources and on-site consultations to in-depth training and ergonomic assessments, Beacon helps you stay compliant and keep your workforce protected.

Don’t wait for an accident to act. Partner with Beacon Mutual for workers’ comp coverage and proven safety solutions that make a real difference for your business and your people. Learn more at www.beaconmutual.com.
Beacon Mutual

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Beacon Mutual