This document provides information on ladder safety. It discusses the different types of ladders including wood, fiberglass, aluminum, and extension ladders. It describes proper inspection, set up, and use of ladders. Key points covered include inspecting ladders for defects before using, setting ladders at the proper angle, maintaining three points of contact, and not standing higher than the third rung from the top. The document emphasizes ladder safety practices to prevent injuries from falls or electrical hazards.

1. LADDER 1
SAFETY
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2. Types of Ladders
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Wood Stepladder
 non-conductor of electricity when dry
 the best natural insulator against heat of all materials
 ages very fast
 not a good insulator against heat

3. Types of Ladders
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Fiberglass Stepladder
 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

4. Types of Ladders
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Aluminum Stepladder
 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

5. Types of Ladders
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Fiberglass & Aluminum Extension Ladder
 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.

6. Types of Ladders
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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.

7. Stepladders
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 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.

8. Stepladders
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 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.

9. Climbing And Standing On a
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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.

10. Before Climbing A Ladder
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 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.

11. Before You Use
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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.

12. Before You Use
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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.

13. Ladder Checklist
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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?

14. Ladder Checklist
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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 Ladders
1. Loose, broken or missing
extension locks?
2. Defective locks that do not
seat properly when extended
3. Worn or rotted rope?

15. Ladder Inspection
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 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.

16. Using a Ladder
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 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.

17. Using a Ladder
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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.

18. 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.

19. www.safety.wordpress.com
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