Ladders can be useful tools, but when used incorrectly, they can cause serious injuries or even death. In fact, each year falls from ladders make up a third of deaths in construction. Fortunately, falls are preventable when you plan ahead, provide the right equipment and train workers to use equipment safely.
OHC wants to help you work safe at heights and prevent falls. Before you climb a ladder at work, take a look at our checklist to make sure you are using ladder safety:
Wear proper footwear.
When using a ladder, make sure you are wearing non-slip flat shoes.
Right equipment
Always make sure you have the right equipment for the job. For example, if you are working around electricity, you should use a fiberglass ladder.
Inspect the ladder
Before using a ladder, check it carefully to make sure there are no visible defects and it’s in good working condition. Never use an unsafe ladder.
Proper set-up
Place the ladder on level ground and secure it. When using a ladder to get to another level, secure and extend it at least three feet above the landing point.
Look for hazards
Avoid placing a ladder near doorways, pedestrian walkways, and traffic.
Rule of 3’s
Always face the ladder and maintain three points of contact with the ladder.
For more information on fall prevention, please check these resources:
OSHA Fall Prevention Campaign
National Safety Stand-Down
Join us and OSHA May 8-12 for National Safety Stand-Down to help raise awareness about fall hazards and the importance of following safe work practices. We ask that you please take a moment this week to share this information and talk about fall hazards with your employees.
OHC believes prevention is better than the cure. When prevention doesn’t work, we are here to help, give us a call at 251.436.8039 or visit occupationalhc.com.
Resources:
https://www.osha.gov/stopfalls/
https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3625.pdf
http://www.lni.wa.gov/Safety/Topics/AToZ/LadderSafety/10TipsForLadderSafety.asp
