Montreal construction worker dies after fall from nine-metre ladder during training

A female construction worker died after falling from a nine-metre ladder while undergoing on-the-job training at a Montreal school building, according to a recently published report by the Commission des normes, de l'équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST).

The worker, who had recently been hired by roofing company Toitures trois étoiles, was scheduled to participate in roof repairs at Notre-Dame-des-Anges boarding school on August 5, 2025. She had completed general health and safety training for construction sites and had reviewed the company's prevention program, including safe ladder use. She received required personal protective equipment and signed the relevant documents.

After preparing equipment and materials on the ground under supervisor supervision, she began climbing the ladder, which was securely fastened to the roof per regulations. Halfway up—at approximately four metres—the worker suffered a panic attack, felt unwell, and told the employer's representative who was with her. The supervisor placed his hands on the ladder rungs to offer assistance, but the worker lost her footing and fell to the ground.

Emergency services were called immediately. The worker was pronounced dead at the hospital.

The CNESST notes that while portable ladders are a permitted means of access under the Construction Work Safety Code, safety depends on the user maintaining a firm grip at all times. "However, compared to other means of access, such as a staircase, safety when using a ladder depends on the user maintaining a firm grip at all times," the CNESST stated.

The investigation into whether the company faced penalties or whether there were prior safety violations remains unanswered.