Portable Ladder Selection

In selecting a ladder, employees should consider the following: 

  • Purpose for which the ladder was designed to be used
  • Specific job and work being performed using the ladder
  • The person using the ladder
  • The environment including uneven/unstable ground, slippery conditions, clearance, etc.
  • Height of work surface to be reached for work
  • Load put on the ladder
  • Worker position in relation to the task
  • Regulatory requirements including requirements for length, duty rating and overlapped length

Ladder Selection

Ladder Inspection

Ladders shall be inspected by a qualified person for visible defects frequently and after any occurrence that could affect their safe use.  Departments should document ladder inspections, using the Ladder Inspection Form or similar. 

Ladders with broken or missing steps, rungs, cleats, safety feet, side rails, or other defects shall not be used. Ladders that have developed defects shall be withdrawn from service for repair or destruction; and tagged or marked as "Dangerous, Do Not Use" or with similar language. 

 

Using Ladders

Once the right type and size of ladder has been selected and a thorough ladder inspection has been completed, employees should keep these points in mind while using ladders:

1. Be sure straight ladders are long enough so that the side rails extend above the top support point, by at least 36 inches.

2. Don’t set up ladders in areas such as doorways or walkways where others may run into them, unless they are protected by barriers. Keep the area around the top and base of the ladder clear. Don’t run hoses, extension cords, or ropes on a ladder and create an obstruction.

3. Don’t try to increase the height of a ladder by standing it on boxes, barrels or other materials. Don’t try to splice two ladders together.

4. Do not apply personal or job stickers/decals.

5. Set the ladder on solid footing against a solid support. Don’t try to use a stepladder as a straight ladder.

6. Place the base of straight ladders out away from the wall or edge of the upper level about 1 foot for every 4 feet of vertical height. Don’t use ladders as a platform, runway or scaffold.

7. Tie in, block or otherwise secure the top of straight ladders to prevent them from shifting.

8. To avoid slipping on a ladder, check your shoes for oil, grease or mud and wipe it off before climbing.

9. Always face the ladder and hold on with both hands when climbing up or down. Don’t try to carry tools or materials with you.

10. Don’t lean out to the side when you’re on a ladder. If something is out of reach, get down and move the ladder over.

11. Most ladders are designed to hold only one person at a time. Use by two workers may cause the ladder to fail or throw the ladder off balance.

 

Training

Prior to using a ladder, departments shall provide training to employees in the safe use of ladders, unless the department has documentation that the employee has already been trained in ladder safety.  Employee training should include the following minimum training topics.  *Note that training will vary depending on industry and type of work and below is the minimum.

  1. Importance of using ladders safely
  2. Selection for ladder
  3. Maintenance, inspection, and removal from service
  4. Erecting ladders
  5. Climbing and working on ladders
  6. Factors contributing to falls
  7. Prohibited uses of portable ladders

 

References and Resources