Some Precautions To Take With Extension Ladders At Work

Using extension ladders at work makes it easier for you to reach high areas around your home. However, the higher the heights you had to work from, the more likely you are to be at risk for serious injuries. There are a number of things you need to keep in mind in order to remain safe and sound at work.

• Make sure you lay the ladder on the ground and brace its feet against the building. Now, raise the ladder’s top end and walk it upright hand over hand. After that, when the ladder is vertical, grab a rung at about thigh-high, slightly lift the ladder up and walk the base of it back away from the building.

• After you have successfully positioned the ladder, grab the rope and lift the telescopic section of the ladder (the fly) to the height you want it. Ensure that both rung hooks are securely locked onto a rung of the ladder. Now, tie off the end of the rope to the lower rung.

• Use a 1:4 ratio to correctly set the ladder angle. Then, divide the ladder height by 4 and position the ladder base that far from the house.

• Ensure that your ladder’s both feet sit firmly on the ground. Pile some dirt under whichever foot of the ladder doesn’t make contact with the ground.

• If the ground is wet, muddy, icy or snow-covered, you shouldn’t stand an extension ladder on it.

• Try not to stand higher than the fourth rung from the top.

• Don’t set your ladder up near to electrical power lines.

• Ascend and descend the ladder, always remaining facing it and hold onto the rungs.

• Use a tool belt or holster to carry the supplies or tools that you need so that you can freely use both hands when climbing or descending the ladder.

• Ensure that your hips stay within the vertical side rails, never letting them sway too much to the left or to the right when using the ladder.

• Try not to climb onto roofs, but if you have no choice, ensure that the top pf the ladders extends at least three feet higher than the point of contact.

A safe work place is crucial and ensuring that you have the right safety procedures and policies for things such as working at heights, first aid CPR, confined space entry, as well as things like WHMIS-GHS can create a great work environment that is safe and productive. Since Advanced Consulting and Training Ltd.’s founding, their diverse team of certified health and safety professionals have taken great pride in their ability to deliver prompt, cost-effective and relevant workplace health and safety solutions. As a CPO approved, TSSA accredited, and WSIB approved provider, we look forward to discussing how ACT can help with your company’s safety requirements. Contact us today.