Ladder Failure Linked to Manufacturing Flaw

Case Overview

This is a products liability case that takes place in Arkansas and involves a fiberglass extension ladder. The plaintiff in this case was using the ladder to assist him while he repainted the exterior of the house. While he was working, the fiberglass frame of the ladder broke, and as a result the plaintiff fell and suffered severe injuries. It is believed that a flaw in that particular ladder’s manufacture is the root cause for the failure. The ladder was brand new at the time of the incident, and was approximately 20 feet long when fully extended. An expert on consumer product safety was sought to opine on this issue.

Questions to the Engineering expert and their responses

Are you able to inspect a ladder in SW Georgia to make a determination on how it failed?

I would start by reviewing photos and interviewing witnesses by telephone to develop an initial assessment. More detailed analysis would require personal inspection of ladder and possibly the accident site.

About the expert

This expert is a licensed professional engineer with over 25 years of experience with developing and evaluating climbing products. He is a member of the National Society of Professional Engineers and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. He spent 16 years at Werner Ladder Co as a product design engineer where he designed, prototyped, tested, and manufactured ladders and other climbing products. He is currently an independent engineering consultant.

E-007400

Specialties:

Engineering