Autumn rains can leave the ground wet and muddy, making it harder to place ladders securely. Plus, workers with wet or muddy boots are more prone to slipping as they climb.
Fall’s gusty winds can knock ladders over. It’s important to remember these 10 ladder safety tips this Fall:
- Carefully inspect the ladder for defects, checking for cracks, corrosion and that bolts and rivets are secure. Tag and remove unsafe ladders from service.
- Make sure the ladder’s feet work properly and have slip-resistant pads.
- Use a fiberglass ladder if there is any chance of contact with electricity.
- When setting the ladder, look for a safe location with firm, level footing and rigid support for the top of the ladder. Be sure to set it at an angle per the manufacturer’s guidance.
- When climbing off a ladder at an upper level, make sure the ladder extends 3 feet above the landing.
- When climbing the ladder, use three points of contact — keep 1 hand and both feet or both hands and 1 foot in contact with the ladder at all times.
- Never carry any load that could cause you to lose balance.
- Never stand on top of a ladder.
- Don’t pull, lean, stretch or make sudden moves on a ladder that could cause it to tip over. A scaffold or other safe working surface may be a better choice for your task.
- Avoid setting the ladder near exit doors, near the path of pedestrian or vehicular traffic.