LADDER SAFETY (January 2012)

LADDER SAFETY

Jobs that involve the use of ladders introduce their own set of safety problems, one of which is an increased potential for falls. It is recommends that ladders should be inspected before every use and employees who use them follow a set of standard rules.

Inspecting Ladders

Taking a few moments to look over a ladder carefully before using it can prevent a fall.

• See if the ladder has the manufacturer’s instruction label on it.
• Determine whether the ladder is strong enough.
• Read the label specifications about weight capacity and applications.
• Look for the following condition; cracks on side rails, loose rungs, rails or braces; or  damaged connections between rungs and rails.
• Check for heat damage and corrosion.
• Check wooden ladders for moisture that may cause them to conduct electricity.
• Check metal ladders for burrs ad sharp edges.
• Check fiberglass ladders for signs of blooming, deterioration of exposed fiberglass.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ladder Use

Many accidents involving ladders result from improper use. Following a simple sets of rules for the proper use of ladders can reduce the risk of falls and other ladder-related accidents.

• ·       Check for slipperiness on shoes and ladder rungs.
•       Secure the ladder firmly at the top and bottom.
•       Set the ladder’s base on a firm, level surface.
•      Apply the four-to-one ratio (base one foot away from the wall for every four feet between the base and the support point).
•       Face the ladder when climbing up or down.
•       Barricade the base of the ladder when working near an entrance.
•       Don’t lean a ladder against a fragile, slippery or unstable surface.
•       Don’t lean too far to either side while working (stop and move the ladder).
•       Don’t rig a makeshift ladder; use the real thing.
•       Don’t allow more than one person at a time on a ladder.
•     Don’t allow your waist to go any higher than the last rung when reaching upward on a ladder.
•       Don’t separate the individual sections of extension ladders and use them individually.
•       Don’t carry tools in your hands while climbing a ladder.
•       Don’t place a ladder on a box, table or bench to make it reach higher.