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6 Rules for Ladder Safety

  1. Self-check for safe use.Ladder Safety
  2. Use the right ladder for the job.
  3. Inspect the ladder before and after use.
  4. Set the ladder up correctly.
  5. Climb and descend the ladder with caution.
  6. Be safe and use your training and caution when using a ladder.
1. Self-check for safe use

As you consider using a ladder, take in to account your physical capability of using the ladder. Consider leg and arm strength, balance, vision, and make sure you are not feeling dizzy. Another area to inventory is your clothing. Do you have the proper, non-slip footwear with clean soles and tied laces? Secure your clothing so it will not become caught as you climb.

Ladder Safety and Use Sign-off Template

2. Use the right ladder for the job

It is important to choose a ladder that has the proper load capacity for the job. Consider your own weight as well as the weight of your equipment, tools and materials. The ladder must be long enough to work from without using the top 3 feet.

Extension Ladder Height and Load Tables

1910.23(c)(3) Ladders are not loaded beyond the maximum intended load; Note to paragraph (c)(3): The maximum intended load, as defined in § 1910.21(b), includes the total load (weight and force) of the employee and all tools, equipment, and materials being carried.

1910.23(c)(8) The cap (if equipped) and top step of a stepladder are not used as steps;

1910.23(c)(11)   Portable ladders used to gain access to an upper landing surface have side rails that extend at least 3 feet (0.9 m) above the upper landing surface

3. Inspect the ladder before and after use

Ladder Inspection Form

o    Before use:

  • Check the ladder’s stability.
  • Ensure that all screws, bolts and hinges are tight and that the base of the ladder is secure.
  • Look for loose or damaged rungs, steps, side rails, supports and any other structural damage.
  • Check for any dirt, grease or paint that could cause slips and falls.
  • Remove ladders with structural damage from service.
  • Your ladder should not be in close proximity to electrical wiring.

o   After use:

  • Check for any new structural damage to the steps, side rails, rungs and supports.
  • Check for any bends and any loosened screws, hinges and bolts.
  • Recheck the ladder’s stability.

1910.23(b)(9) Ladders are inspected before initial use in each work shift, and more frequently as necessary, to identify any visible defects that could cause employee injury;

4. Set the ladder up correctly

Ladder placement is important. When using a portable ladder, make sure it is placed on a level surface and that it has non-slip base pads. Protect the base of ladder with a barricade in high traffic areas. Be sure to lock or block any nearby doors that open toward you. If you’re using a stepladder, ensure that it is fully open before use.

A straight ladder should be placed at a four-to-one ratio, which means that the base should be 1 foot away from the wall or vertical surface for every 4 feet of height to the point of support. When climbing onto a roof or platform from a ladder, the ladder must extend at least 3 feet above the edge and be tied off at the top.

1910.23(c)(4) - (c)(7)(ii) Ladders are used only on stable and level surfaces unless they are secured or stabilized to prevent accidental displacement;

5. Climb and descend the ladder with caution

Stay near the middle and face the ladder while holding onto the side rails with at least one hand when climbing or descending. Carry your tools on a belt or hoist and always keep at least three limbs on the ladder. Look for overhead power lines before handling or climbing a ladder.

1910.23(b)(11) Each employee faces the ladder when climbing up or down it;

1910.23(b)(12) Each employee uses at least one hand to grasp the ladder when climbing up and down it; and 1910.23(b)(13) No employee carries any object or load that could cause the employee to lose balance and fall while climbing up or down the ladder.

6. Be safe and use your training and caution when using a ladder
  • Do not lean outside the ladder rails.
  • Keep the ladder and the surrounding area free of clutter.
  • Never use a ladder for something other than its intended purpose. Never use a ladder horizontally like a platform.
  • Do not carry loads that prevent using at least one hand on the ladder.
  • Do not stand on the top step or the top cap, and do not overload your ladder.
  • Do not place a ladder on boxes, barrels or other unstable bases.
  • Do not move or shift a ladder with a person or equipment on the ladder.

Ladder Safety - Dos and Don'ts

Accessory Section:
Ladder Training

 

Training Lesson Safety Tip Link Quiz Link Online Link
Attic Access Ladder Hazards Safety Tip Quiz Online
Ladder Identification  Safety Tip Quiz Online
Electrical Hazards on the Job - Ladders  Safety Tip Quiz Online
Ladder Safety Refresher    Safety Tip Quiz Online
Basic Ladder Safety   Safety Tip Quiz Online
Ladder Inspection Items  Safety Tip Quiz Online
Forms and Templates