Jorge Castanon, Safety Consultant, FRSA Self Insurers Fund
Having the right ladder for the job is the safest way to complete any task. So, how do you ensure you are choosing the right ladder? It’s important to understand the differences between ladders, including their function, ratings and types of material used to make the ladder. This article discusses best practices for ladder use and gives tips to keep you safe on every job.
First, you should select the style that best fits your job. There are five basic categories of ladders: step, extension, multi-use, podium and job-made. Let’s review the best use for each.
A step ladder is a portable self-supporting A-frame ladder. When using a step ladder, open the ladder so that the spreader bar is completely horizontal and locked. Then check that all four feet are balanced and have secure footing. Never use a step ladder in a
closed and leaning position. Remember that the highest standing level on a step ladder is two rungs down from the top. The maximum safe reaching height on a step ladder is approximately 4 feet higher than the height of the ladder. For example, if you needed to reach a 10-foot ceiling, you could usually safely use a 6-foot step ladder.
An extension ladder is also referred to as a portable ladder and it usually has two sections that operate with brackets that allow for adjustable heights. To properly set up an extension ladder, you should place the ladder at a four-to-one angle against its point of
contact. That means for every four feet up, the base should come out one foot. Then you will need to secure it to prevent any sideways movement. Ensure that both feet are balanced and have secure footing. You should use a ladder leveler when working on uneven surfaces. If you’re on a hard surface, you should use non-skid or rubber feet and, on a soft surface like dirt or gravel, you need to use the metal feet and dig them into the ground to secure the ladder. When using the extension ladder for gaining access, make sure the rails extend at least three feet above the landing surface. On an extension ladder, the highest standing level is four rungs down from the top.
Multi-use ladders have the capability to be set up in a variety of configurations. You should read all labels on the ladder for optimum set up and use.
A podium ladder is a self-supporting ladder that provides a large standing surface, allowing workers to face any direction without repositioning the ladder. You should make sure that the podium step is correctly positioned to avoid overreaching and that the safety gate is shut and locked once you are on the platform.
The last category is a job-made ladder, constructed onsite, usually out of wood, to fit very specific needs.
To decide which type best fits your task, you need to determine the following:
■ For what jobs do you need the ladder?
■ Will the ladder be used inside or outside?
■ What heights will you need to reach?
■ How much weight will be on the ladder including tools and materials?
■ Is there a possibility of working near electricity or powerlines?
■ A ladder duty rating determines the load capacity or maximum weight a ladder can safely support. Calculate the workload to include the approximate weight of the worker, the tools needed and the materials that will be used to complete the job.
If you’re working around electricity or powerlines, you need to choose a ladder made of nonconductive material such as wood or fiberglass. Ladders are like any other tools on the job site. They must be protected from physical damage and kept in good working condition. Before every use, you should perform a visual inspection of the ladder. First, check for missing or damaged feet. Ladders may have either non-skid pads for use on hard surfaces, such as concrete and flooring or metal feet for soft surfaces such as dirt and gravel – or both. Next, check the side rails and rungs. Look for broken, slit, cracked, corroded, bent or missing rails and rungs. Finally, check for any loose, corroded or weakened hardware like bolts, rivets, fasteners or latches. Defective or damaged ladders must be immediately tagged as defective and removed from service. Regularly inspecting and maintaining your ladders
will extend their life and help ensure your work will be done safely.
When handling and setting up a ladder, always be aware of your environment and look for potential hazards or obstacles that could put you in an unsafe position. When carrying a ladder, grasp the rail toward the center to create a balanced load and have a coworker help you carry long or heavy ladders. Also, be cautious carrying a ladder through tight spaces. Always be aware of electrical powerlines and maintain a safe distance of at least 10 feet from them. Proper ladder set up not only helps prevent injuries but aids in the efficiency of the task at hand.
Falls from ladders are one of the leading causes of fatalities and injuries in construction work sites. Here are a few reminders and tips to keep you working safely. First, always read and follow the ladder safety instructions and load ratings. These instructions are
usually located on the side rails. When climbing and working on a ladder you should always maintain three points of contact, such as two hands and one foot on rungs to help prevent slips or falls. Don’t overreach: the maximum reaching distance is about four feet above the height of the ladder. Never set up a ladder in a high traffic area where other workers or machinery can bump or knock down the ladder. Never place a ladder up on other objects such as boxes, barrels, scaffold or other unstable bases in order to obtain additional height and never use improvised or homemade ladders or carry out makeshift repairs to a damaged ladder. Proper setup, use and maintenance of your ladders will ensure a safe workplace and prevent serious injuries.
For additional information, visit the OSHA website at www.osha.gov or contact your local FRSA-SIF Safety Consultant.
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