As the holiday season approaches, WorkSafeBC emphasizes heightened precautions for workers and employers across industries when working at heights. Tasks such as installing decorations, outdoor construction, and winter property maintenance can become particularly hazardous due to wet and icy conditions.

In 2023, WorkSafeBC accepted 4,520 claims for fall-related injuries, with nearly 35% classified as serious and 21 resulting in fatalities. The service and construction sectors accounted for the majority of injuries, representing 32% and 27% of claims, respectively. Common causes of falls include improper ladder use, unguarded stairs, and incorrect or inadequate fall protection.

According to Suzana Prpic, Senior Manager of Prevention Field Services at WorkSafeBC, these risks can be minimized through proper planning, training, supervision, and the correct use of fall protection equipment. Employers hold a critical responsibility in implementing these measures to prevent falls from ladders, structures, roofs, vehicles, and scaffolds.

WorkSafeBC underscores the importance of involving workers in risk management. Workers, as the primary individuals performing hazardous tasks, bring valuable insights to identifying risks and developing practical safety measures. Engaging workers and joint health and safety committees in the early stages of planning ensures comprehensive and effective risk management strategies.

Winter weather, with its wet and icy conditions, further increases the risk of falls. As workplace conditions shift with the season, ongoing and regular risk assessments are essential to mitigate potential hazards. By fostering a collaborative safety culture and revisiting safety protocols frequently, employers can significantly reduce the incidence of fall-related injuries and fatalities.

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