What should you know about falls from scaffolds?

Falls from scaffolds are a serious workplace hazard that can lead to severe injuries, long hospital stays and even death. 

Whether you’re a construction worker, site manager or just someone curious about workplace safety, understanding the risks and outcomes of scaffold falls can help raise awareness and prevent these accidents.

Who is most at risk?

The people most likely to be injured in scaffold falls are younger men, especially those in their 30s and 40s. These workers often perform physically demanding jobs that involve working at heights, making them particularly vulnerable. Men ultimately make up the majority of victims, highlighting the need for targeted safety measures in male-dominated industries like construction.

What are common injuries from scaffold falls?

When someone falls from a scaffold, the injuries are often severe. Victims are more likely to suffer:

• Severe head injuries, with nearly 19% of cases involving life-threatening trauma to the head

• Spinal fractures, which occur in about 30% of scaffold falls, making mobility and recovery long-term concerns

• Other serious traumas, with 24% of scaffold fall victims experiencing injuries classified as severe compared to 17% of those who fell from ladders

These injuries often require intensive care and can result in lengthy hospital stays, permanent disability or even death.

What are the likely outcomes from scaffold falls?

Unfortunately, the outcomes of scaffold falls are often grim. Mortality rates for these falls are higher than for ladder falls, with 2.5% of scaffold fall victims not surviving. 

Many survivors face significant challenges, including a 25% chance of being admitted to the ICU. Recovery often depends on factors like the severity of the head injury, whether the victim experienced low blood pressure upon arrival at the hospital and the person’s age and relative health prior to the fall.

Prevention is key

While injuries from scaffold falls are often devastating, they’re also preventable. Workplace safety programs, proper training and using reliable scaffolding equipment can go a long way in reducing these accidents. 

However, accidents still happen, and when they do, the consequences are often life-changing. If you or someone you know has been injured in a scaffold fall, it’s important to remember that injured workers have the right to expect workers’ compensation. Unfortunately, navigating these claims can be complicated –  and insurance companies don’t always offer fair settlements. Seeking legal guidance about workers’ compensation can help ensure you get the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages and long-term care needs.