Introduction | Falling accidents frequently occur in the construction industry, the key is how to choose stepladders and ladders
In the construction industry in Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, high-altitude work occurs on a daily basis. While the use of stepladders and ladders is essential, there is always a risk of falling.
In fact, according to Japan’s work accident statistics, falling accidents caused by stepladders and ladders account for 5-7% of all accidents, and most of these occur while ascending or descending. In this article, we will explain the correct selection and use of stepladders and ladders, as well as practical measures through on-site implementation examples to reduce these “preventable accidents” in the construction industry.
Issues and background | The reality and lessons of ladder and stepladder accidents at construction sites
Data on fall accidents in the construction industry | Fatal risks caused by stepladders and ladders
In the construction industry, “falls” are the most common cause of fatal accidents, with accidents occurring when using stepladders and ladders. According to statistics from the past 10 years, ladder-related fatalities account for 5.7% of all accidents, with approximately 10 lives lost annually (Construction Safety and Health Agency).
In particular, in the field of “construction work,” stepladders and ladders are used frequently, with 53.4% of accidents occurring while working on roofs or at height. By type of action involved in the accident, 50.5% of accidents occurred while ascending or descending, and 28.2% occurred while working, making the moment of ascent and descent the most dangerous.
Summary of major risks | Misuse of stepladders and ladders leads to accidents
Typical risks commonly seen on-site include:
- Incorrect installation angle (less than 75°): The center of gravity is shifted, causing breakage or falling
- Unfixed installation: Dislocation due to slipping of the upper and lower ends
- Use of overloaded or old equipment: Non-JIS standard products or damaged stepladders
- Unsafe behavior: Climbing or descending while carrying luggage, descending backwards
- Not using scaffolding or safety belts: No measures taken when working over 2m
Many of these accidents can be prevented by prior inspection and education, and selection of appropriate stepladders and ladders. JIS S1121 and the Industrial Safety and Health Regulations (Articles 526-528) stipulate standards such as “step width of 30 cm or more,” “foot end equipment with anti-slip properties,” and “use of materials that have been tested for load resistance.”
The following habits are key to preventing accidents on a daily basis at the work site:
- Check that the equipment is level and secure after installation
- Checklist for inspection before use
- Thorough use of 3-point support and safety harnesses
The safe use of stepladders and ladders is not a matter of skill, but of awareness and preparation. In the next chapter, we will introduce the key points for selecting Hasegawa products that support this, as well as examples from the field.
Product and service introduction | Hasegawa stepladders and ladders that support safety in the construction industry
Strengths of Hasegawa products | Efficiency and safety in high-altitude work
When working high-altitude at construction sites, the selection of stepladders and ladders is an important factor that determines safety and work efficiency. Hasegawa provides high-quality products that comply with JIS S1121 and the Industrial Safety and Health Regulations.
Structural strength and step design
Hasegawa stepladders use wide steps with a step width of 60 mm to ensure stability underfoot. For example, the stepladder “Kakeru” series is lightweight yet highly durable, reducing fatigue even during long hours of work.
Safety by material (FRP, etc.)
For work that involves a risk of electric shock, such as electrical work, FRP stepladders with excellent insulation are suitable. Hasegawa’s “Fortress” series uses FRP material and combines electrical insulation and durability.
Suitable models for each work site
It is important to select the ladder’s functions according to the site conditions. Hasegawa’s “Shagaman” series has extendable legs, allowing stable work even on uneven surfaces. In addition, the upper operating lever and side trigger allow you to operate the extension and retraction while standing, improving work efficiency.
Source: [Product information | Hasegawa Kogyo Co., Ltd.] (https://www.hasegawa-kogyo.co.jp/product/)
On-site implementation case | Achieving zero accidents and time savings by replacing stepladders
Before: Aging stepladders make the site unstable
A mid-sized general contractor had been using aluminum stepladders for many years, but they had become aging, causing problems with slippery steps and unstable structure. Workers were especially concerned about safety when working on roofs and at high altitudes.
Action: Switching all ladders to the Shagaman series
In order to improve safety and work efficiency, the company introduced Hasegawa’s “Shagaman” series. This series’ legs have a telescopic function, allowing stable installation even on uneven or inclined surfaces. In addition, the upper operating lever and side trigger allow the ladder to be telescopically operated while standing, improving work efficiency.
After: Improved work efficiency and safety
The introduction of the new stepladders has eliminated workers’ concerns and improved work efficiency by approximately 25%. Furthermore, within one year of the introduction, there were zero accidents caused by stepladders, and the company has received high praise from safety managers. These results confirm that the right product selection creates a safety culture on site.
Hasegawa’s reliability | Quality and responsiveness that deliver peace of mind to the construction industry
Quality and safety assurance | Product inspection system in accordance with JIS and ISO
Stepladders and ladders are “equipment that you entrust your life to.” That is why quality assurance is essential at construction sites. Hasegawa ensures high quality with the following system.
- Performance testing in accordance with JIS S1121
Static load testing of 2.6kN is conducted on stepping rails. Products are shipped after checking for bending and damage. - ISO9001 and ISO14001 certified factory
The same quality control standards as in Japan are also implemented at the local factory in Vietnam. Up to 20 items of structure, appearance, and moving parts are checked before shipping. - Continuous updating of safety standards
We respond promptly to revisions to the Construction Accident Prevention and Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare guidelines and reflect them in product design and inspection items. Peace of mind is maintained by the “current standards.”
Custom orders and local support | A system for delivering optimal solutions to construction sites
Hasegawa has the flexibility to deliver “usable stepladders and ladders” to address the different challenges of each construction site.
- Example of custom stepladder support
The sales and technical departments worked together to deliver a long stepladder with a sliding side that was needed for ceiling piping work in about three weeks. We can flexibly respond to site-specific conditions. - Local support in Vietnam
We provide comprehensive support, from hearings and design consultations before product introduction to inspections and educational support after introduction. We also have a well-established local logistics network, and are strong in dealing with short delivery times and inventory shortages. - Safety training sessions
We also hold instruction sessions on how to use and explain inspection points for local workers. Our attitude of delivering not only products but also “how to use” supports a culture of zero accidents.
Source: [Company Information | Hasegawa Kogyo Co., Ltd.] (https://www.hasegawa-kogyo.co.jp/company/)
Custom orders and local support | A system for delivering optimal solutions to construction sites
Hasegawa has the flexibility to deliver “usable stepladders and ladders” to address the different issues at each construction site.
- Example of custom stepladder support
The sales and technical departments worked together to deliver a long stepladder with a sliding side that was needed for ceiling piping work in about three weeks. We can flexibly respond to site-specific conditions. - Local support in Vietnam
We provide comprehensive support from hearings and design consultations before product introduction to inspection and educational support after introduction. We also have a well-established local logistics network, which is a strength in dealing with short delivery times and inventory shortages. - Holding safety training
We also hold instruction sessions on how to use and explain inspection points for local workers. Our attitude of delivering not only products but also “how to use” promotes a culture of zero accidents.
Summary | Rethinking stepladders and ladders will change the safety culture in the construction industry
Many fall accidents in the construction industry can be prevented by properly selecting and using stepladders and ladders. In this article, we introduced the actual situation on site, accident trends, selection criteria, and examples of using Hasegawa products.
JIS-compliant quality and custom-made to meet on-site needs. Choosing stepladders and ladders that are both safe and efficient is the first step to protecting the lives of workers. For implementation consultations and product catalogs, please see below.