Transcript Slide 1
FEDERAL GROUP
Unclassified
VSE Corporation
PORTABLE LADDERS
Unclassified
Ladder “Don’ts”
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Ladder Enabling Objective
PORTABLE LADDER SAFETY
IAW 29 CFR 1910.25/.27
GOAL
Provide adequate knowledge and training to minimize or eliminate ladder
accidents.
INTRODUCTION – Importance of Ladder Safety
Any fall can be serious, and a fall from the height of even a low ladder can
mean a painful and incapacitating injury.
Regarding Incidence of Occupationally - Related Deaths: Excluding motor
vehicle accidents, falls are the No. 1 cause of occupational related deaths.
18,757 injuries and 24 fatalities per year caused by falls from ladders.
Falls account for more than 15% of all worker compensation cases.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that in one year, 65,000
individuals receive emergency room treatment because of ladder accidents. (CDC)
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Ladders
CAUSES OF OCCUPATIONALLY RELATED DEATHS
Ladders placed on unstable surfaces
Workers reaching too far beyond the sides of the ladder. (Beyond center of body)
Personnel standing too high on the ladder in order to maintain balance
Defective or broken ladders (e.g., broken rails, rungs, missing hardware)
Ladders were not secured or braced. (Particularly extrusion ladders)
Personnel hand carrying loads while ascending or descending
Selecting the wrong ladder for the job
Improper positioning of the ladder
Strong winds or rain
80% of ladder fall victims fell or slipped and nearly half of these fell at least 8’
57% percent of fall victims were holding object (s) with one or both hands
66% of fall victims were not trained in how to inspect ladders
73% of fall victims not provided written instructions on safe use of ladders
30% of fall victims had wet, greasy or oily shoes
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References
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.25-.27 Portable Ladders
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1053-.1060 Portable Ladders
ANSI A14.1 Portable Ladders-Construction
ANSI A14.2 Portable Wood Ladders
ANSI A14.5 Portable Metal Ladders
ANSI A14.4 Portable Reinforced Plastic Ladders
OSHA = Occupational Safety and Health Administration
ANSI = American National Standards Institute
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Work Practice
Portable ladders can be made from metal (steel or aluminum),
wood, fiberglass, or reinforced plastic
Selection for the Job
If a safer means of access (e.g., scaffolds, work platforms, or
fixed ladders) is possible, portable ladders should not be used
The TASK determines the correct ladder required for the job
(e.g., Indoor painting may require a conventional stepladder, while
outdoor painting requires extension ladder. Heavier job may
require an upgraded ladder, like platform ladder.)
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Approved Ladder
An approved ladder
usually consists of two side
rails joined by regularly
spaced crosspieces called
steps, rungs, or cleats,
allowing for up and down
movement
Ladders will be labeled with
their duty rating
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Approved Ladder
Requirements:
Uniform step spacing should be no more
than 12 inches and parallel
The minimum space between side rails
should be no less than 11 ½ inches
The minimum width of the side rails should
be no less than 1 inch
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Training
Keep in mind that the length of a ladder is different
from its usable length.
Ladders must be long enough to insure user does
not stand on the top two steps of a stepladder or the
top four rungs of a straight ladder.
The height these ladders can safely reach is reduced
by the angle at which the ladder must be set up.
When an extension ladder is used to access a roof,
the ladder should extend at least 3 feet above the
support point at the eave, gutter, or roof line. Short
ladders should never be spliced together to form a
longer ladder. Ladders should not be placed on
unstable bases to gain additional height .
Ladders are constructed to safely hold a specific
amount of weight. Weight limits consist of users,
their clothing, tools, and materials. Extra allowance
should be made for stress exerted by worker.
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Weight-Capacity Classifications
The weight-capacity classifications for ladders are:
Grade
Duty
Length
Rating
(lbs)(kg)
Use
Household
III
3-6 Feet
200 (91)
Household
Commercial
Medium Duty
II
3-12 Feet
225 (102)
Tradesman
Industrial
I
3-20 Feet
250 (114)
Industrial
Industrial
Heavy Duty
IA
3-20 Feet
300 (136)
Heavy
Industrial
NOTE: LADDER'S DUTY RATING IS ON A LABEL AFFIXED TO THE LADDER
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Purchasing a Ladder
Three types of materials most commonly used:
Wood
+ non-conductor of electricity when dry
+ the best natural insulator against heat of all materials
- ages very fast
Fiberglass
+ non-conductor of electricity
+ dense material and is slower to conduct heat than metals
+ ages very slow
- heavier than aluminum or wood models
- tends to chip and crack under severe impact, or when dropped upon solid objects
Aluminum
+ in general are tough
+ age very slow
+ will not chip or crack when subjected to severe impact
- can conduct electricity
- not a good insulator against heat
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Purchasing a Ladder
The stability of an individual stepladder can be checked by
standing on the first step from the bottom and twisting the
ladder. If it feels unsteady, choose another ladder.
All metal ladders should have slip-resistant rubber or plastic
feet. A double edge steel prong foot is supplied on all ground
ladders to prevent slippage when the ladder is in use. It is
recommended that a rubber safety shoe also be used if the
ladder is to be positioned on a hard surface such as concrete.
Metal stepladders should have slip-resistant steps. Some
wooden stepladders also have this desirable feature.
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Types of Ladders
Stepladders
Erect a stepladder only on a flat
level surface
Before climbing a stepladder,
make sure that its legs are fully
extended and the spreader locked
The locking device on some
ladders may present a pinching
hazard, so keep fingers clear when
setting up the ladder
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Types of Ladders
Stepladders
Never use a step ladder as a straight ladder
Stepladders do not exceed 20 feet
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Types of Ladders
Stepladders
Do not step on the bucket
shelf or attempt to climb or
stand on the rear section
supports. They are not
designed to support the
weight of a person.
Only a two way ladder is
designed for two people.
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Types of Ladders
Extension Ladders
To raise a ladder, brace the
lower end against a wall
and then grasp the top
rung with both hands
Raise the top end and walk
underneath the ladder,
moving down the rungs
until the ladder is vertical
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Types of Ladders
Extension Ladders
When using an extension ladder, raise
it to the desired height, being sure the
locks engage properly on both sides of
the ladder.
Extension ladders do not exceed 44
feet when extended.
Extension ladders are not used fully
extended. There is an overlap
between sections, not less than 10% of
the working length of the ladder.
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Storage and Maintenance
Ladders should be
stored in a sheltered
area.
Never leave a raised
ladder unattended.
(It could fall
unexpectedly and
injure someone.)
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Storage and Maintenance
Straight and extension ladders should be stored horizontally
on racks or hooks with support points at the top, middle, and
bottom of the ladder to prevent sagging and warping
Wooden ladders affected by exposure to heat, combined with
dampness, need a dry, well-ventilated storage area
A wooden ladder used outdoors should be shellacked,
varnished or given two coats of linseed oil as a protective
coating, unless it already has protective coatings
Never paint a wooden ladder; the paint can hide defects
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Storage and Maintenance
Never use a damaged
ladder
Have repair work done
only by a competent
repair shop
If there is major damage,
discard the ladder
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Storage and Maintenance
Do not attempt to straighten
a bent metal ladder
Periodically tighten the
reinforcing rods under the
steps of a stepladder, the
spreader hinges and other
hardware
Metal bearings of locks,
wheels, pulleys shall be
frequently lubricated
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Precautions
Avoid using a ladder if excessively tired, on medication, or have been temporarily impaired.
Place ladder angle so base is at least 1 foot (0.305 meter) out for each 4 feet (1.2 meter) of
ladder working length (support point to the base). Example: 12'=3', 20'=5'.
Place top of ladder so both rails are fully supported. Allow extra room for ladder shifting.
Place ladder on a substantial and level base, staking or securing lower end of the ladder,
whenever possible.
Top support point for portable ladders must be rigid and have adequate strength to support
applied load.
Place the ladder away from unlocked or unguarded doors that may open toward the ladder.
Extend the ladder side rails at least 3 feet (0.91 meters) above the support point.
Always raise extension ladders so upper section overlaps and rests on bottom section. Upper
section must always overlap on climbing side of the extension ladder. Ensure at least a 3 foot
(0.91 meters) overlap for extension ladders of 36 feet (11 meters) or more.
Do not place a metal-reinforced ladder where it may come in contact with electric wiring.
Never use ladders in a horizontal position.
Take care when ladders are used on oily, metal, concrete, or slippery surfaces.
Extend ladder only while standing on the ground at ladder base.
Do not place ladders on boxes, barrels, or other unstable bases to obtain additional height.
Do not use ladders to gain access to a roof unless top of the ladder extends at least 3 feet (0.91
meters) above support point (at roof line).
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Precautions II
Face the ladder and use both hands to grip side rails while ascending or descending.
Only one person at a time should stand on portable ladders.
Carry tools on a tool belt. Haul materials up on a line, rather than carrying them.
Do not exceed maximum safe height limit (fourth rung from the top on extension ladders;
second step from the top on stepladders).
Wipe off greasy or muddy shoes, as much as possible, before using ladder.
Do not overload a ladder.
Ensure stepladder is fully open and locked before using it.
Do not leave placed ladders unattended, they may be a hazard for others.
Keep ladders clean and free of grease.
Use extra caution while climbing during windy weather conditions.
Never use a defective ladder.
Do not drop or throw ladders.
Do not use make-shift ladders.
Do not splice short ladders together to make long ladders.
Use portable ladders with reinforced rails (only with metal reinforcements on underside).
Ensure portable ladders have nonslip feet.
Handle ladders with care. Do not drop or misuse them.
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Recommended Actions
Those responsible for using and maintaining portable ladders should ensure:
Ladders are maintained in proper condition.
Any ladder used, where there is a slipping hazard, is supplied with nonslip
devices. Nonslip devices, if used, should be securely attached.
Ladders are safely placed and secured at all times; never rely on nonslip
devices as a substitute for care in safely placing and securing ladders.
Ensure ladder being used has the proper duty rating to carry the combined
weight of the user and the material being installed. A ladder's duty rating
tells you its maximum weight capacity.
ANSI requires that a duty rating sticker be placed on the side of every
ladder so users can determine if they have the correct type ladder for each
task/job.
Type IA and Type I ladders are the only acceptable ladders on a
construction jobsite.
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Repairs
Field or makeshift repairs on existing ladders or
the fabrication of ladders is discouraged
Do not attempt to straighten or use a bent ladder
made of metal or reinforced plastic
Ladder repairs must be made only by qualified
personnel and must be reviewed by supervisory
personnel after repairs are made
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Coating
When necessary, coat metal, wood, and plastic ladders
with a suitable protective material
Do not paint wood ladders with opaque coating (e.g.,
paint) because possible defects may be covered up
Use only transparent coatings or wood preservatives
Metal ladders may need extra protection in cases of
excess moisture, salt spray, acidic, or alkaline conditions
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Transportation
Assistance may be needed in transporting heavy or
long ladders
When transported on vehicles, ladders should be
adequately supported (preferably on hardwood or
rubber-covered pipe) to avoid sagging and should
be fastened securely
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Storage
Store ladders to provide easy access for inspection and permits safe
withdrawal for use
Do not store ladders where they present a tripping hazard, nor where
they can fall on personnel
When stored horizontally, ladders should be supported at several
points to avoid sagging
Keep ladders away from sources of heat and moisture and in a wellventilated area
Aluminum ladders should not be stored in certain atmospheres (e.g.,
acidic) due to severe corrosion problems
The sun’s rays can cause deterioration in fiber-glass ladders
Wax fiber-glass ladders with paste wax for extended storage and
increased life span of use
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NonSlip
Ladders should have non-skid safety feet and be in satisfactory condition.
To ensure ladders are used properly, OSHA places primary responsibility on the
user to ". . . equip all portable rung ladders (e.g., single vertical ladders, section
ladders, trestle ladders) with nonslip bases when there is a hazard of slipping."
ANSI A 14.1-1994, Section 8.3.4, reads in part, "Where ladders with no safety shoes,
spurs, spikes, or similar devices are used, a foot ladder board or similar device may be
employed. Ladders shall not be used on ice, snow, or slippery surfaces unless suitable
means to prevent slipping are employed."
Wood ladders are not required by code or standard to have nonslip devices or shoes
installed by the manufacturer (ANSI A 14.1-1994, Section 6.3.1.9).
If nonslip devices or shoes are provided, they must be securely attached to the
bottoms of the ladder side rails (ANSI A 14.1-1994, Section 6.3.1.9).
The ladder user is responsible for ensuring any wood ladder used, where there is a
hazard of slipping, is equipped with nonslip devices or shoes (1910.25).
Nonslip devices are not intended as a substitute for care in safely placing and
securing any ladder (1910.25).
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Controlling Hazards
Inspecting the Ladder
All Ladders, including job made ladders, will be capable of
supporting at least 4 times the maximum intended load
Ladders shall be inspected by a competent person for visible
defects on a monthly basis and after any occurrence that
could affect their safe use
All ladders will be inspected prior to use and be maintained
in good working condition
Ladders found to have defects, will immediately be marked
"Do Not Use,” taken out of service and replaced
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Controlling Hazards
Inspecting the Ladder
You should inspect the following:
Ladders have no nails, screws, or splinters sticking out
Side rails for dents or bends
Rivets for shear
Hardware connections
Excessively dented rungs
Rungs are firmly attached to side rails
Rungs have no oil or grease on them
Non-slip safety feet or bases on ladders are in good condition
Non-slip safety material on ladder rungs is in good condition
Ladder is not wobbly and steps are not worn or broken
Documentation of inspection maintained for three (3) years
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Controlling Hazards
Setup
Do not place it on a table or
any similar platform for
added height
Ladders should be placed on
dry firm ground
Ladders should not be placed
in front of doors opening
towards the ladders unless
the door is locked or guarded
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Controlling Hazards
Setup
Ladders shall be used only
on stable and level surfaces
unless secured to prevent
accidental displacement
Ladders shall not be used on
slippery surfaces unless
secured or provided with
slip-resistant feet to prevent
accidental displacement
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Controlling Hazards
Setup
Ladders shall not be tied or fastened together to
provide longer sections unless they are specifically
designed for such use
A metal spreader or locking device shall be
provided on each stepladder to hold the front and
back sections in an open position when the ladder
is being used
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Controlling Hazards
Setup
Ladder components shall be surfaced to prevent injury to an
employee from punctures or lacerations, and to prevent
snagging of clothing
Wood ladders shall not be coated with any opaque covering,
except for identification or warning labels, which may be
placed on one face only of a side rail
Ladders shall be maintained free of oil, grease and other
slipping hazards
Ladders shall be used only for the purpose for which they
were designed
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Controlling Hazards
Setup
Portable extension ladders
shall be used at an angle where
the horizontal distance from
the top support to the foot of
the ladder is approximately
one-fourth of the working
length of the ladder
(Example: If the ladder is 20
feet long, the base of the ladder
should be 5 feet from the
structure.)
20 ft
long
ladder
5 ft
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Controlling Hazards
Setup
Never use a ladder in a strong wind.
The point where the ladder rests against the wall
should be flat and firm.
A ladder should not be placed in front of a door
that is not locked, blocked or guarded.
Before positioning the ladder, check for insect or
bird nests under leaves. The top of a ladder is no
place to discover a wasp nest.
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Controlling Hazards
Setup
The area around the top
and bottom of ladders
shall be kept clear
The top of a portable
extension ladder shall be
placed with the two rails
supported equally
Ladders shall not be
moved, shifted or
extended while occupied
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Controlling Hazards
Setup
When portable ladders are
used for access to an upper
landing surface, the ladder
side rails shall extend at
least 3 feet above the upper
landing surface
When such an extension is
not possible, because of the
ladder's length, the ladder
shall be secured at its top
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Controlling Hazards
Setup
Keep metal ladders away from
electrical wires
Ladders should have
nonconductive side rails if they
are used where the employee or
the ladder could contact exposed
energized electrical equipment
When using a ladder near power
lines, use a wooden or fiberglass
ladder since metal ladders
conduct electricity
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Controlling Hazards
Use
Face the ladder when climbing or descending and use
both hands
Mount the ladder from the center, not from the side
Tools should be carried in the pockets, in a bag
attached to a belt, or raised and lowered by rope
Be sure that the soles of your shoes are clean and dry
Work facing the ladder, holding on with one hand
If it is ever necessary to work with both hands, hook
one leg over the rung
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Controlling Hazards
Use
Single-rail ladders shall
not be used
Short ladders should
not be spliced together
to provide long sections
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Controlling Hazards
Use
A good general guide is to
keep your body centered
between the rails of the ladder
Instead of leaning to the side,
get down and move the ladder
Ladders should not be used
by more than one person at a
time unless the ladder was
designed for multiple people
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Controlling Hazards
Use
In case of sudden dizziness or a panicky feeling,
bow your head, drape both arms over the rung in
front of you, close your eyes, and wait until the
feeling passes.
If possible, secure the ladder. One way to do this is
to have someone hold the bottom of the ladder.
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Controlling Hazards
Use
Do not drape cords,
store things or hang
objects on ladder
This is a potential trip
hazard and a possible
electrical hazard
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Controlling Hazards
Use
Ladders shall not
be used in a
horizontal position
as platforms,
runways or
scaffolds
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Controlling Hazards
Use
The top or top step shall not be
used as a step
Never overextend the body
Always maintain at least three
points of contact with the ladder (2
feet and 1 hand, or 2 hands and 1
foot) should be in contact with the
ladder at all times
The user shall use at least one hand
to grasp the ladder when
progressing up or down the ladder,
and shall not carry any object or
load that could cause the user to
lose balance and fall
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Controlling Hazards
Use
The top or top step shall not
be used as a step
Never overextend the body
Remember, right tool for the
right job
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What is wrong with this picture?
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What is wrong with these pictures?
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What is wrong with these pictures?
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What is wrong with these pictures?
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Ladder Safety Checklist-I
This safety checklist has been designed to help VSE employees and supervisors follow the minimal ladder safety
practices. Ladders should meet the standard requirements of OSHA 29 CFR 1910 and 1926 or ANSI A14.5.
Workers who think of a ladder as a tool will be more aware of ladder safety and less likely to take chances when
using a ladder. Use the following checklist as a guide, first for inspecting a ladder and second for ensuring that
safety precautions are taken when using the ladder.
Ladder Inspection
Do all ladders meet the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.25/26 and/or ANSI A14.5-1974 (Compliance with
cited standards verified by checking tags or stamps on each ladder)
Are the rungs, cleats, or steps in good condition? 29 CFR 1910.25(b)(1)(i)
Are the side rails intact without any cracks, bends, or breaks? 29 CFR 1910.25(b)(1)(i)
Do the rungs, cleats, or steps fit snuggly into the side rails? 29 CFR 1910.25(b)(1)(i)
Is the ladder free of corrosion?
Are the side rails and steps free of oil or grease?
Have ladders been checked for loose nails, screws, bolts, or other projecting metal parts? 29 CFR
1910.25(d)(1)(i)
Is regular lubrication of metal bearings, locks, or pulleys on ladders performed? 29 CFR 1910.25(b)(1)(ii)
Do moveable parts operate freely without binding or excessive play?
Are the ropes on extension ladders intact without fraying or excessive wear? 29 CFR 1910.25(d)(1)(iii)
Are safety feet and other auxiliary equipment on portable ladders in good condition? 29 CFR
1910.25(b)(1)(iv)
Have non-skid coatings been applied to metal ladder rungs or steps that are not corrugated, knurled, or
dimpled in design? 29 CFR 1910.25(b)(1)(v)
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Ladder Safety Checklist-II
Safe Ladder Procedures
Are procedures established to ensure that ladders are not placed in front of doors that open toward the
ladders unless the doors are locked, blocked, or otherwise guarded? 29 CFR 1910.25(d)(2)(iv)
Is only one person allowed on a ladder at a time? (Exception: More than one person is allowed on a ladder
when jacks with scaffold planking are used in conjunction with ladders capable of supporting 225 pounds
(102 kilograms) or more.) 29 CFR 1910.26©(3)(ii)
Are employees instructed on the proper way to ascend/descend ladders? 29 CFR 1910.26 (c)(3)(v)
Is it prohibited to place ladders on boxes, barrels, or surfaces with unstable bases? 29 CFR 1910.25 (d)(2)(v)
Did you select a ladder with adequate length and load limits?
Don't use metal ladders near electrical lines.
Are you using the ladder for its intended purpose?
- Don't use a ladder as a brace, skid, lever, gangway, platform, scaffold, plank, or material hoist.
- Don't tie ladders together to make them longer.
- Don't use a stepladder as a straight ladder.
Did you set up the ladder on a firm, solid surface?
- Don't place a ladder on boxes or blocks to make it taller.
- Don't set up a ladder on a scaffold to gain extra height.
- Don't set up a ladder on a slippery or icy surface.
Are you securing or barricading the ladder to protect it from being bumped when you have to work in
doorways, passageways, or driveways?
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Ladder Safety Checklist-III
Safe Ladder Procedures (cont’d)
Is the area around the top and bottom of the ladder clear?
Is your stepladder fully opened with the spreaders locked to keep the ladder stable?
Have you set up your straight ladder using the 4 to 1 rule? (1 foot from the wall for each 4 feet of ladder
length.)
Have you set up your straight ladder so the rails are supported equally at the top?
Is the straight ladder set up so the top extends at least 3 feet above the support point?
Are you using your extension ladder so the upper section overlaps the lower section, and the overlap is on
the climbing side with the rungs locked in place? Do you face the ladder when ascending or descending?
Do you use both hands to grip the side rails whenever possible? Always use at least one hand to grasp the
ladder when climbing, and don't carry any object or load that could cause you to lose balance.
Do you use a ladder safety device when needed on fixed ladders?
Do you stay off of the top 2 steps of a stepladder?
Do you stay off the back section of a stepladder?
Do you stay off the top 4 rungs of a straight ladder?
Is only one person allowed on the ladder at a time?
Do you hoist tools or other materials up to you after you've reached the top of the ladder?
Wear a toolbelt to help you manage tools while you're working on a ladder.
Do you work within the side rails? If your belt buckle goes past the side rail, you are leaning too far.
Descend and move the ladder as needed to stay close to your work.
Do you store the ladder in a secure designated area after use?
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Ladder “Don’ts”
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“MISSION FIRST SAFETY ALWAYS”