Ladder Safety

Ladder Safety

Ladders present unique opportunities for unsafe acts and unsafe conditions. Employees using ladders must be trained in proper selection, inspection, use and storage.

Hazards Include

• Ladders with missing or broken parts.
• Using a ladder with too low a weight rating.
• Using a ladder that is too short for purpose.
• Using metal ladders near energized electrical equipment.
• Using ladders as a working platform.
• Objects falling from ladders.

Using Ladders

• Place ladders on a secure footing, lashed, or hold them in position.
• Ladders used to gain access to a roof or other area shall extend at least 3 feet above the point of support.
• Do not use top step or top of a regular stepladder as a step.
• Use both hands when climbing and descending ladders.
• Never use metal ladders near electrical equipment or energized lines.
• The foot of a ladder shall, where possible, be used at such a pitch that the horizontal distance from the top support to the foot of the Ladder is one-quarter of the working length of the ladder (the length along the ladder between the foot and the support).
• Always face the ladder when climbing up or down.
• Do not splice short ladders together to make long ladders.
• Never use ladders in the horizontal position as scaffolds or work platforms.

Inspect Ladders Before Each Use

• All rungs and steps free of oil, grease, dirt, etc.
• All fittings tight.
• Spreaders or other locking devices in place.
• Non-skid safety feet in place.
• No structural defects, all support braces intact.

DO NOT use broken ladders.
Tag broken ladders “Do Not Use” and remove them from service.

Ladder Storage

• Store ladders on sturdy hooks in areas where they cannot be damaged.
• Store to prevent warping or sagging.
• Do not hang anything on stored ladders.
• Procedure to prevent ladder incidents
• Place ladder on a clean, slip free level surface.
• Extend the ladder 3-4 feet above the top support, if used to access roof or other elevated surface.
• Anchor or secure the top of the ladder when the 3-4 foot extension is not possible.
• Place the ladder base ¼ the height of the ladder from the wall when using a straight ladder.
• Never allow more than one person on a ladder.
• Use tool belts or hand lines to carry objects.
• Do not lean out from the ladder in any direction.
• If you have a fear of heights – don’t climb a ladder.
• Do not allow others to work under a ladder in use.

Ladder Maintenance

• Keep ladders clean.
• Never replace broken parts unless provided by the original manufacturer.
• Do not attempt to repair broken side rails.
• Keep all threaded fasteners properly adjusted.
• Select the right ladder for the job.
• Inspect ladder before you use it.
• Setup the ladder with care.
• Climb and descend ladders cautiously.
• Face ladder and hold on with both hands.
• Carry tools on belt or raise and lower with hand line.
• Check shoes and rungs for slippery surfaces.
• Use safe practices when working on a ladder.
• Always hold on with one hand and never reach too far to either side or rear to maintain balance.
• Never climb higher than second step from top on a stepladder or third from the top on a straight ladder.
• Never attempt to move, shift, or extend ladder while in use.