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2026-03-17 – A consumer reported a fall hazard incident involving a Werner FS104 MK 14 ladder that collapsed while in use, causing a finger injury that required medical attention. The report, filed with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) via SaferProducts.gov, highlights a potential design defect in the product, which is manufactured by Werner Co. Product DetailsBrand Name: Werner Incident OverviewOn February 9, 2026, a consumer was using a Werner 4-foot ladder (model FS104 MK 14) when the ladder suddenly became unstable and collapsed while they were standing on the third step. The consumer landed on their feet but sustained an injury to their finger, which was subsequently seen by a medical professional. The incident was reported to the CPSC through SaferProducts.gov, where it was classified as a fall hazard with a severity type of "Seen by Medical Professional." According to the report (CPSC Report ID 5921845), the ladder gave way without any prior warning signs, and the consumer described the failure as a collapse of the ladder structure. The reporter indicated that the ladder was being used as intended at the time of the incident. No prior issues with the product were mentioned, and the ladder was only four feet in height, making the collapse particularly unexpected. The incident underscores a potential design defect, as the ladder failed during routine use without any apparent external cause. Safety ConcernsImmediate Dangers: The sudden collapse of a ladder from the third step can cause the user to fall from a height of approximately two to three feet. While the consumer in this incident landed on their feet, such falls can result in fractures, sprains, or head injuries depending on landing position. The finger injury reported here suggests that users may instinctively reach out to break their fall, increasing the risk of hand or arm injuries. Long-Term Risks: Continued use of a ladder with a potential design defect could lead to repeated failures, each posing a risk of more severe injury. Without a recall or corrective action, consumers may unknowingly use a product that is prone to collapse, increasing the likelihood of emergency room visits or long-term disability. Who Might Be Affected: Anyone using the Werner FS104 MK 14 ladder for tasks such as painting, light construction, or household maintenance is at risk. The ladder's height makes it suitable for various indoor and outdoor tasks, meaning a broad range of consumers—from homeowners to professionals—could be affected. Warning Signs: According to the incident report, the ladder gave no prior warning before collapsing. This absence of warning signs makes the hazard particularly insidious, as users cannot anticipate the failure and take preventive measures. The ladder appeared stable until the moment of collapse. What Our Clients SayWhat Consumers Should DoStop Using Immediately: If you own a Werner FS104 MK 14 ladder, stop using it until more information is available about the potential defect. Continued use could result in a sudden collapse and injury. Preserve the Product: Keep the ladder in its current condition. Do not attempt to repair or modify it. Preserving the product is important for any future investigation or legal action. Document the Incident: Take photographs of the ladder, especially any damaged areas, and write down the details of when and how it was used. Keep a record of any injuries and medical treatment received. Seek Medical Attention: If you have been injured while using this ladder, see a medical professional even if the injury appears minor. Some injuries, like those to fingers or hands, may have lasting effects if not treated promptly. Report to the CPSC: File a report with SaferProducts.gov to alert regulators and other consumers. Include details about the product, the incident, and any injuries. Check for Recalls: Visit CPSC.gov to check for any recalls or safety notices related to the Werner FS104 MK 14 ladder. As of now, no recall has been announced, but this may change as more reports are filed. If you or someone you know has been injured by this product, you may want to speak with a product liability attorney about your legal options. Manufacturer's ResponseThe manufacturer's official response to this specific incident report is not publicly available at the time of this writing. No public recall or official statement from Werner Co has been identified as of the report date. Consumers are advised to monitor CPSC.gov for updates.
Legal Help AvailableH Law Group is a California-based product liability law firm dedicated to helping consumers injured by defective products. We handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. Our team offers free, no-obligation consultations to discuss your case and explore your options. If you or a loved one was injured by Werner FS104 MK 14 or a similar product, contact H Law Group at (888) 499-4948 for a free, no-obligation consultation. |
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