Alarm Servicer Falls

A service worker for a security alarm system company died after a 35 foot (10.6 meter) fall.

The victim was called to a county garage to inspect a faulty alarm system. He borrowed a 20- to 40-foot (six- to 12-meter) aluminum extension ladder, checked the first alarm, then placed the ladder against a steel rafter to reach a second ceiling alarm. There he would have to reach over wires that energize a rail crane. Power had not been shut off.

After he reached the alarm, he yelled and fell sideways. It is not clear if he had pinched himself, received a shock or fell for another reason. His head and shoulder struck the concrete and he died within an hour of a skull fracture and bleeding.

Be sure to use a nonconductive ladder around electricity. Follow all lockout/tagout procedures as well as OSHA standards for ladder safety.