61-year-old worker falls from ladder, was taken to hospital
A 61-year-old worker doing work for the Halifax Port Authority (HPA) in Nova Scotia sustained life-threatening injuries after an incident in the workplace, according to reports.
The incident happened on Tuesday.
Police responded to a workplace incident that occurred on Marginal Road at approximately 1:40 p.m.
“A 61-year-old man fell off a ladder and was transported to hospital for treatment of what are believed to be life-threatening injuries,” the Halifax Regional Police said via X.
Global News, City News and CTV News all reported the incident.
The worker is a contractor doing work on behalf of an HPA tenant, Lane Ferguson, director of communications at the port, told Global News via email.
“Our thoughts are with the contractor, his family and friends,” he said.
How do you use a ladder safely on a worksite?
The Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Division of the Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration is investigating the incident.
“A Stop Work Order was issued” to both PSA Halifax Limited Partnership and Cochrane’s Electrical Contracting, they told Global News via email.
Previously, the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) shared safety tips for employers and workers regarding the use of ladders in the workplace.
The document covers what workers should do when using a stepladder how high a person should stand on a stepladder and things to avoid when using a stepladder.
The following are some of the things to avoid, according to CCOHS:
- Do not overreach. Move a stepladder when needed.
- Do not "shift" or "walk" a stepladder when standing on it.
- Do not stand, climb, or sit on the stepladder top or pail shelf.
- Do not overload. Stepladders are meant for one person.
- Do not use a stepladder as a brace or as a support for a work platform or plank.
