Stepladder design could prevent spinal injury, research suggestsRSS Feed

Stepladders are a common cause of spinal injury but with the correct ergonomics and user behaviour, many of these accidents could be prevented, according to a new study.

Research conducted by the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society noted that compared to a flat surface, stepladders present a smaller and less rigid surface to stand on, making it easy for the user to lose their balance.

Moreover, when people lose their balance on a stepladder, they may be unable to take a step or hold onto something to regain their balance.

Study authors believe that designers and users can both make changes to reduce the incidence of falls.

These include making the ladder more rigid and adding front and rear rails as well as cross-shaped spreader bars to the contraption.

This follows the development of an e-tool for patients with spinal cord injury by groups including the Indian Spinal Cord Injuries Centre (ISIC), the Asian Spinal Cord Network (ASCoN), the International Spinal Cord Society (ISCoS) and Livibility.

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