Ladder Safety Copyright 2012 American Safety Management Inc

Ladder Safety Copyright © 2012 American Safety Management Inc.

Injury Statistics • About 350 people are killed from ladder falls each year and 90, 000 are injured • Twice as many falls occur descending as compared to ascending • Main cause of single/extension ladder falls is sliding of base of ladder • Main cause of step ladder falls is tipping sideways • These accidents are preventable if you follow proper ladder safety procedures!

Major Hazards • Main hazard is falling from ladder • Back injuries from lifting heavy ladder second highest cause of injury • Other hazards include: – Struck by falling ladder/materials – Tripping over ladder – Striking person/object while carrying ladder – Contact with electrical equipment

Main Types of Ladders • Stepladder • Single Ladder • Extension Ladder *Ladders can be made from wood, aluminum, steel, or fiberglass

Stepladders • Self-supporting • Not adjustable in length • Not allowed to be used if longer than 20’ • Must be equipped with a metal spreader or locking device • Never use in unfolded position

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Single Ladders • Not self-supporting – Must be leaned against object • Not adjustable in length • Not allowed to be used if longer than 30’

Extension Ladders • Not self-supporting • Adjustable length – Must have 2 locking mechanisms (one on each side of ladder) • Not allowed to be used if longer than 60’

Setting Up a Ladder • Before setting up any ladder, inspect it for defects, DO NOT use if any defects are found • Whenever possible sue 2 people to carry and set up ladder • Keep ALL types of ladders at least 10’ from all power lines and overhead obstructions (In certain conditions, any ladder can conduct electricity)

Setting Up a Ladder • Always place ladder on firm level ground • Use slip resistant feet or have a person hold ladder to secure base • If that is not possible, tie ladder off to secure anchor point • Keep area around ladder free from obstructions • If in traffic areas, put up signs to warn people of ladder in the area • Never place ladder on other objects, i. e. scaffold, box, pallets, etc.

Setting Up a Ladder • Stepladders must have all 4 legs on solid, level ground with spreader fully open • Single/Extension Ladders should observe 4: 1 ratio – The base should be 1 foot out from building for every 4 feet of height • Must extend at least 3’ past working surface

Using a Ladder • Always check a ladder before using it and anytime you have left and returned to it later • Always face a ladder when climbing up or down • Wear shoes with slip resistant soles and make sure rungs are free of grease, mud, water, etc. • Always maintain 3 points of contact – 1 hand, 2 feet – 2 hands, 1 foot

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Using a Ladder • Keep yourself centered on ladder • Never stand on top 3 rungs of a single/extension ladder • Never stand on top step or on top of stepladders • Avoid using ladders in windy conditions • Never move ladder while someone is on it

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Using a Ladder • Never attempt to move ladder while you’re on it • Lower extension ladders before moving • Never carry tools or materials up/down ladder • Either use tool belt or a hoist system to bring tools up to working surface

Maintenance • Wood: – Do not paint (could be defects) – Check for cracks, rot, splinters, broken rungs, and loose joints • Aluminum/Steel: – Check for rough burrs, sharp edges, faulty welds or cracks – Replace worn/frayed ropes on extension ladders • Fiberglass: – Should maintain a surface coat of lacquer – Check for any cracks or splinters

Key Points • Always inspect a ladder before use • Ladders are disposable items • Do not use a ladder unless you have been properly trained