Workplace falls continue to be a serious safety concern for employers. Although there are many factors that contribute to workplace falls, most injuries are the result of falls to a lower level. In fact, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reports that falls remain a leading cause of unintentional injury mortality nationwide.

Of those fatalities, NIOSH says that in the last decade 43 percent have involved a ladder. Injuries from these falls can be severe, but fortunately are preventable. Portable ladder safety begins with familiarity and compliance with the provisions of safety regulations and best practice guidance to avoid common missteps.