Portable Ladder Safety
Portable ladders are one of the handiest, simplest tools we use.
Because of their effectiveness, ladders are used by many different
people to perform many different tasks. Although ladders are very
uncomplicated, planning and care are still required to use them safely.
Each year in the U.S., accidents involving ladders cause an estimated
300 deaths and 130,000 injuries requiring emergency medical attention.
LADDER HAZARDS
Ladder accidents usually are caused by improper selection, care or use,
not by manufacturing defects. Some of the more common hazards
involving ladders, such as instability, electrical shock, and falls, can be
predicted and prevented. Prevention requires proper planning, correct
ladder selection, good work procedures and adequate ladder maintenance.
Prevention tips:
Do not hand-carry loads on a ladder.
Do not try reaching so far that you lose your balance; move the ladder.
Non-skid feet or spurs may prevent a ladder from slipping on a hard, smooth surface.
Do not stand on the ladder’s top three rungs.
A damaged side rail may cause one side of a ladder to give way.
The base should be spaced 1 foot away for every 4 feet it reaches up .
Ladders used to reach a walking surface or roof must extend at least 3 feet beyond.
Extension ladders need both locks holding to prevent overloading a rail.
Step ladders should be securely spread open.
Never use a folding step ladder in an unfolded position.
Electrical shock can occur with metal or wet wooden ladders.
Not only is the shock itself dangerous, but it can cause falls resulting in injury.
LADDER SELECTION
Portable ladders are designed as "one-man"equipment with the proper strength to
support the worker as well as his tools and materials. Ladders areconstructed
under three general classes:
Type I Industrial - Heavy-duty with a load capacity not more than 250 pounds.
Type II Commercial - Medium-duty with a load capacity not more than 225 pounds
(suited for painting and similar tasks).
Type III Household - Light-duty with a load capacity of 200 pounds.
LADDER MAINTENANCE
Wood ladders: should be protected with a clearsealer varnish, shellac, linseed oil or wood preservative.
Wood ladders should not be painted, because the paint could hide defects. Check carefully for cracks, rot,
splinters, broken rungs, loose joints and bolts andhardware in poor condition.
Aluminum or steel ladders should be inspected for rough burrs and sharp edges before use.
Inspect closely for loose joints and bolts, faulty welds and cracks. Makesure the hooks and locks on
extension ladders are ingood condition. Replace worn or frayed ropes onextension ladders at once.
Fiberglass ladders should have a surface coat oflacquer maintained. If it is scratched beyond normal
wear, it should be lightly sanded before applying a coat of lacquer.
HELPFUL HINTS
When working on cylindrical objects like poles and columns, the top rung of portable ladders can be
replaced with chain or rope to reduce rocking.Aluminum ladders are very corrosion-resistant, but
exposing them to fertilizer can cause damage.Use the ladder inspection checklist to remind
yourself of what you should look out for in order toprevent accidents.