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7 Steps to Ladder Safety

  1.  NEVER USE A SUBSTITUTE FOR A LADDER
  •  Chairs
  • Boxes
  • Storage Shelves
  1. KNOW WHAT KIND OF LADDER TO USE
  • Metal
  • Fiberglass
  1. INSPECT THE LADDER PRIOR TO EACH USE
  •  Steps and rungs for a tight fit
  • Free of grease, oil and dirt
  • Braces, rails and hardware in good condition
  • Nonslip safety feet
  • Ropes, pulleys and locking mechanisms in good condition
  1. USE PROPER SETUP PROCEDURES
  •  Use the 4 to 1 rule
  • Set the feet on firm ground
  • Make sure braces are fully locked
  • Be sure both rails are against a firm support
  • Extension – Be sure the sections overlap at least 3 feet and are properly locked
  1. CLIMB THE LADDER SAFELY
  •  Check shoes and rungs for excessive dirt, grease, oil, etc.
  • Face the ladder, hold on to the side rails and climb slowly
  • Use a tool belt / don’t carry tools in hand when climbing
  • Step ladder – Don’t climb past the second rung
  • Extension Ladder – Don’t climb past the third rung
  1. PRACTICE SAFE WORK HABITS
  • Only one person on the ladder at a time
  • Work only within arm’s reach
  • Don’t walk the ladder when you are on it
  • Don’t use the ladder in highly traveled area without barricades or caution signs
  • Don’t use the ladder in front of a door that opens towards you
  1. CARRY THE LADDER SAFELY
  • Get help when needed
  • When using two people to carry a ladder, walk from the same side and walk in step with each other
  • When carrying a ladder by yourself, lift the front end above head level and the rear end close to the floor