Fatal Ladder Fall Incident in Landscaping – August 2023

On August 18, 2023, a fatal accident involving a ladder occurred at a commercial landscaping site in Toronto, Ontario. The incident resulted in the death of a 39-year-old landscaping worker, Daniel Green. Green was using an extension ladder to trim trees at a height of approximately 20 feet when the ladder slipped, causing him to fall to the ground.

The investigation revealed that the ladder was not properly secured and was positioned on uneven ground, which contributed to its instability. Green was not using any fall protection equipment, such as a harness, and the ladder did not have non-slip feet, which are essential for safe use on unstable surfaces. Despite immediate medical attention, Green succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

This incident highlighted the critical need for proper ladder safety training and equipment in the landscaping industry. The company involved has since implemented stricter safety protocols, including mandatory training sessions on ladder safety, regular equipment inspections, and the use of fall protection gear when working at heights.