German safety agencies advise on ladder use and protective gloves

The German Berufsgenossenschaft Holz und Metall (BGHM) reports that one‑third of the roughly 34,000 reportable workplace fall accidents involve ladders or steps, leading to injuries ranging from bruises to spinal damage. It urges employers to conduct risk assessments, provide suitable ladders, and prefer safer alternatives such as scaffolds, mobile work platforms, or aerial lifts. Kathrin Stocker, a prevention expert at BGHM, stresses that ladders should only be used when the hazard is low, the work is brief, and the task can be performed safely.

Hand injuries are also among the most frequent industrial accidents. Boris Bachschijan, product manager at Mewa, recommends selecting protective gloves based on the specific hazard, protection class, and material, following DIN EN 21420 and CE marking requirements. He highlights the importance of fit, comfort, durability, and sustainability, noting that longer‑lasting gloves reduce costs and resource use. Future developments may include smart gloves with sensors to detect risks and monitor protection status.