1LADDER SAFETY

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Types of Ladders

non-conductor of electricity when dry

the best natural insulator against heat of all materials

ages very fast

not a good insulator against heat

Wood Stepladder

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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

Types of Ladders

Fiberglass Stepladder

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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

Types of Ladders

Aluminum Stepladder

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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.

Types of Ladders

Fiberglass & Aluminum Extension Ladder

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There are three basic portable ladder types:

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.

Type III – Household: Light-duty with a load capacity of 200 pounds.

Types of Ladders

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Stepladders

Self-supporting (foldout) and non-self-supporting (leaning) portable ladders must be able to support at least four times the maximum intended load, except extra-heavy-duty metal or plastic ladders, which must be able to sustain 3.3 times the maximum intended load.

Never use a ladder for any purpose other than the one for which it was designed.

It is intended for use by one person. A Stepladder requires level ground support for all four of its

side rails. If this worksite condition does not exist, a stepladder should not be selected for the job.

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Stepladders

A Stepladder must not be used unless its base is spread fully open and the Spreaders locked.

In order to prevent tipping the ladder over sideways due to over-reaching, the user must climb or work with the body near the middle of the steps.

the stepladder user must not step or stand higher than the step indicated on the label marking the highest standing level. The user must also not step or stand on the Top Cap or bucket/pail shelf.

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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Climbing And Standing On a Ladder

Always face the ladder when climbing or descending. Keep both feet on the ladder - never put one foot on a rung

and the other foot on a different surface. Do not climb higher than the second rung on stepladders or

the third rung on straight or extension ladders. Never stand on the top or the paint shelf of a stepladder. Don't place an extension ladder's angle too steep or

spanned too far away from the work area. Follow the ladder's recommended angle guides for ladder safety. Use the 1:4 ratio to ensure a stable working platform. Place the base of the ladder 1 foot away of whatever it leans against for every 4 feet of height to the point where the ladder contacts at the top.

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Before Climbing A Ladder

Only choose ladders with the UL (Underwriter's Laboratory) seal. Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) is an independent product safety certification organization.

Beware hidden dangers like bare wires and obstacles that you may bump you head on while climbing the ladder. Many times there are electrical lines like overhead service lines in the area you are working. Not only that, but there could be pipes and other things sticking out of the ground that are dangers of injuring you if you fall from a ladder onto them. If at all possible, move these dangers before you begin.

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Before You Use

You should inspect the following:

Check that the ladders have no nails, screws, or splinters sticking out.

Check side rails for dents or bends.

Check rivets for shear.

Check the hardware connections.

Check for excessively dented rungs.

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You should inspect the following:

Check that the rungs are firmly attached to side rails.

Check that the rungs have no oil or grease on them.

Check that the non-slip safety feet or bases on ladders are in good condition.

Check that the non-slip safety material on ladder rungs is in good condition.

Check that the ladder is not wobbly and that steps are not worn or broken.

Before You Use

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Ladder Checklist

All ladders Needs Repair OK Date repaired

1. Loose steps or rungs

2. Loose nails, screws, bolts, or other metal parts

3. Cracked, spilt or broken uprights, braces or rungs?

4. Slivers on upright, rungs or steps

5. Damaged or worn non-slip bases?

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Ladder Checklist

Needs Repair OK

Date repaired

Step ladders

1. Wobbly

2. Loose or bent hinge spreaders?

3. Stop on hinge spreader broken?

4. Loose hinges?

5. Broken, split steps?

Extension Ladders1. Loose, broken or missing extension locks?

2. Defective locks that do not seat properly when extended

3. Worn or rotted rope?

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Ladder Inspection

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 should also 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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Using a Ladder

Make sure the ladder is suited for the type of job you plan to do.

Before using a ladder, especially a ladder that has been stored in the garage for a while, inspect it for cracks or broken joints.

Place your ladder on a stable, even, flat surface. Never place a ladder on top of another object.

Use the 1:4 ratio to ensure a stable working platform. Place the base of the ladder 1 foot away of whatever it leans against for every 4 feet of height to the point where the ladder contacts at the top.

When using an A-frame stepladder, make sure the brace is locked in place.

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If climbing onto another surface, make sure the ladder extends at least three feet past the platform you're climbing onto.

Wear slip resistant shoes free from oils.

Secure tall ladders by lashing or fastening the ladder to prevent movement.

Always face the ladder when climbing or descending.

Keep both feet on the ladder - never put one foot on a rung and the other foot on a different surface.

Use three point of contact at all times.

Secure loose clothing, tools, jewelry.

Using a Ladder

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Do not climb higher than the second rung on stepladders or the third rung on straight or extension ladders.

Never stand on the top or the paint shelf of a stepladder.

Keep your belt buckle (if you have one) positioned between the rungs so it doesn't catch.

Never leave ladders unattended - kids love them.

When working with electricity, use a ladder made of wood or fiberglass.

Using a Ladder

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