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Safety Toolbox Talks

Ladder Usage

Both single and extension ladders should be equipped with nonskid safety feet and should be placed on a firm, level surface. The distance from the ladder’s base to the wall should equal one-fourth the distance from the base to the point of support.

  • Never set ladders on boxes or other objects to make the ladder reach higher areas
  • Lock or barricade any doors that may open toward ladders
  • Approximately three feet of a straight ladder should extend above the topmost spot to be reached
  • Never stand above the third rung from the top of a straight ladder or above the second highest step of a stepladder
  • Never use stepladders as straight ladders
  • Open stepladders fully and make sure that the spreader is locked securely
  • Only one person should be on a ladder at a time and should always face the ladder when going up or down
  • While on a straight ladder, hold on with one hand and don’t overreach. It’s safer to climb down and move the ladder. Use a safety belt if both hands have to be occupied
  • If you use a metal ladder, make sure that it-or you-doesn’t come into contact with electric wires or equipment
  • Never carry large objects while ascending or descending a ladder. To carry tools and accessories, use shoulder straps, bags, or hand lines
  • Inspect all ladders at regular intervals
  • Defective ladders should be tagged “dangerous-do not use,” and removed from service without delay
  • Ladder steps and rungs should be kept free from oil and other foreign matter
  • Ladders should not be painted because paint may conceal defects
  • When not in use, ladders should be kept on racks having sufficient supporting points to prevent sagging