Introduction
Ladders are commonly used in construction, maintenance, warehouses and offices. Falls from ladders remain one of the most frequent workplace accidents and often lead to serious injuries. If you suffered a ladder accident at work due to employer failings, you may be entitled to claim compensation.
This page explains common ladder accidents, employer responsibilities, evidence that strengthens your claim, and how much compensation you could receive.
At a glance
- Around 28,000 workers were injured in falls from height between 2021/22 and 2023/24, a rate of 89 per 100,000 workers (Source: WAAC analysis of the HSE LFS data published 12/2024)
- Ladder accidents can result in fractures, head injuries, back injuries and, in severe cases, life-changing trauma.
- Employers must comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Work at Height Regulations 2005.
- Compensation can include pain, suffering, lost earnings, medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- You normally have three years from the accident date to make a claim.
Report your injury, then photograph the ladder, footing and floor. Note height, task and any defects or missing anti-slip feet. Get witness names and keep a record of treatments and time off.
John Kushnick
Legal Operations Director
National Accident Law
What is a ladder accident?
A ladder accident occurs when a worker falls or is otherwise injured while using a ladder at work. Ladders should only be used for light, short-duration tasks, and employers must ensure they are suitable and safe. Common causes of ladder accidents include:
- Unstable ladders – placed on uneven or slippery surfaces.
- Faulty ladders – broken rungs or worn parts not repaired or replaced.
- Overreaching – leaning too far without moving the ladder.
- Incorrect use – using ladders for tasks they are not designed for.
- Lack of supervision or training – workers not instructed in safe use.
Examples of ladder accidents and injuries
| Accident type | Cause | Possible injury |
|---|---|---|
| Fall from ladder | Unstable or poorly positioned ladder | Broken bones, spinal injuries, head trauma |
| Ladder collapse | Faulty or poorly maintained ladder | Crush injuries, lacerations, fractures |
| Overreaching | Failure to move ladder during task | Fall, shoulder injury, back injury |
| Slip on rung | Worn tread, wet or greasy footwear | Sprains, fractures, concussion |
| Incorrect ladder type | Using step ladder instead of platform ladder | Fall from height, multiple injuries |
Am I eligible to claim?
You may be able to claim if:
- Your ladder accident occurred at work within the last three years, and
- Your employer failed to provide safe equipment, supervision, training or risk assessments, and
- Medical evidence confirms the injury and its link to the accident.
If you’re unsure, see Do I have a claim and The claim process.
How much compensation can I claim?
The value of a ladder accident claim depends on your individual circumstances. Compensation is made up of two parts:
- General damages: for the pain, suffering and impact on your quality of life.
- Special damages: for financial losses such as lost earnings, medical treatment, rehabilitation and travel expenses.
Our compensation calculator uses the latest Judicial College Guidelines to estimate how much you could claim. It considers the type and seriousness of your injuries, multiple injuries where relevant, and any additional financial losses.
When is my employer responsible?
Employers are legally responsible under the Health and Safety at Work Act and the Work at Height Regulations 2005. If the following duties were not followed, your employer may be liable:
- Provide safe ladders and ensure they are suitable for the task.
- Inspect ladders regularly and remove defective equipment.
- Train workers in the safe use of ladders and stepladders.
- Ensure ladders are only used for short-duration, low-risk tasks.
- Provide supervision and ensure work is planned properly.
Employment status and ladder accident claims
If negligence caused your injury, you can usually claim whatever your contract type. See how employment status affects your claim:
See also Health and safety breach injury claims.
Evidence that strengthens a ladder accident claim
- Medical records confirming the injury.
- Accident book entries and incident reports.
- Inspection and maintenance logs for ladders.
- Training records and risk assessments.
- Photographs of the accident site and ladder involved.
- Witness statements from co-workers.
Time limits for ladder accident claims
You normally have three years from the date of the accident or from when you realised your injury was caused by unsafe working conditions (the “date of knowledge”). Exceptions apply for children and those lacking capacity. See time limits for claims.
FAQs
New to claims? Start with our work injury claim guide, or see the full work injury claim FAQs.
Can I claim if I was partly responsible for my fall?
Yes. You may still claim, but compensation could be reduced for contributory negligence. See What is contributory negligence?.
Can agency or temporary workers make ladder accident claims?
Yes. All workers are entitled to a safe workplace. See Agency worker injury claims.
Do I need to attend a medical assessment?
Yes. An independent medical expert will assess your injuries and provide a report to support your claim. See What happens at a medical appointment.
Call now for free specialist advice
We'll put you straight through to an experienced work injury advisor:
- Advice that's right for your case
- Check if you can claim
- No Win, No Fee explained clearly
If you decide to make a compensation claim, we'll connect you with the right solicitor.
Work Accident Advice Centre (WAAC) a Claims Management Company regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Ref number: 835858). Registration is recorded on the FCA website https://register.fca.org.uk/. Calls are confidential and are handled by our partners at National Accident Helpline. Our privacy policy explains how we protect your data.
About the author
Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.
Last reviewed October 2025 by Chris Salmon
External references
- HSE: Safe use of ladders - provides comprehensive guidance on the safe selection, inspection, and use of ladders to prevent workplace accidents.
- HSE: Slips and trips at work - offers advice on preventing slips and trips, common causes of ladder-related falls in the workplace.
- Work at Height Regulations 2005 - the primary legislation governing safe work at height practices, including ladder use and risk assessments.
- GOV.UK: Compensation after an accident or injury - explains the process for claiming compensation for injuries resulting from ladder accidents at work.
- HSE: Workplace injury statistics - provides data on workplace accidents, including falls from ladders, to help understand risks and support injury claims.