Ladder Safety

Falls are the leading cause of injuries and fatalities in the workplace. This makes working from heights one of the most dangerous tasks within construction. Ladders are the most frequently used equipment when working from heights due to their ease of use and portability. In this blog we will be reviewing portable ladders and how to properly inspect, use, and store them.
 
Ladder Inspections
Prior to using your ladder, a proper inspection and ladder placement is crucial for safety. When inspecting and placing your ladder, make sure that:

• Working surface is flat and free of debris
• Ladder is placed away from overhead power lines and electrical equipment
• Step ladder spreaders are fully open and locked
• Extension ladders are angled at a 4:1 slope
• Ladder rungs are inspected and in operating condition

 
Ladder Use
Falls from heights below 6ft are the most common type of fall in the workplace. To reduce your risk of falls when using a ladder, be sure to:

• Maintain 3-points of contact when climbing or descending the ladder
• Keep your body mass in the middle of ladder and do not overreach/overextend
• Stay off the top step/cap of the step ladder
• Extend your ladder 3ft above the upper landing of your workspace
• Know the load capacity of your ladder (you and your tools included)

 
Ladder Storage
Once your work is complete and you have safely descended your ladder, proper storage will help increase the lifespan of your ladder. When storing your ladder, make sure that:

• Ladder is protected from weather and the elements
• Keep ladders free from walkways and machinery to limit incidental contact
• Clean all spills and slippery materials from ladder to ensure it is safe for use next time
• Lubricate moving parts such as spreader bars, hinges, and locks periodically
• If ladder is damaged, remove from service and discard so others cannot use

 
Ladders are a fast, effective way to work at heights. While falls from these short distances are common and dangerous, following the proper inspections, use, and storage of ladders will help keep you and others safe around your jobsite. To keep the conversation going, download the Ladder Toolbox Talk (TBT) or comment below.

Ladder TBT