Ladder safety

Tips to prevent falls and injuries.

OSHA estimates that there are 24,882 injuries and as many as 36 fatalities per year due to falls on stairways and ladders used in construction. Nearly half of these injuries were serious enough to require time off the job.

Solutions:

• Use the correct ladder for the task.
• Have a competent person visually inspect a ladder before use for any defects such as: Structural damage, split/bent side rails, broken or missing rungs/steps/cleats and missing or damaged safety devices; grease, dirt or other contaminants that could cause slips or falls; paint or stickers (except warning labels) that could hide possible defects.
• Make sure that ladders are long enough to safely reach the work area.
• Mark or tag (“Do Not Use”) damaged or defective ladders for repair or replacement, or destroy them immediately.
• Never load ladders beyond the maximum intended load or beyond the manufacturer’s rated capacity.
• Be sure the load rating can support the weight of the user, including materials and tools.
• Avoid using ladders with metallic components near electrical work and overhead power lines.