Use of ladders procedure Test

8.0.16-P Use of Ladders Procedure - Rev.0

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HAZARDS: Falls from ladders, struck by falling ladders and metal ladders near live electrical equipment.

Pre-Use Assessment:

• Is a ladder the safest most practical means of access for the task? Can the task be completed another way (aerial lift, lift pod, mobile platform ladder, etc.)? Examine alternatives to ladder use!!

• If a ladder is determined as the most appropriate piece of equipment for the task:

• Ensure that the correct ladder for the task is selected and used for the purposes for which it was designed (e.g., never use a step ladder as a straight ladder).

• Inspect the ladder prior to use. Never climb a damaged, bent or broken ladder.

• Ensure that rungs and the floor are clean, dry and free of oil and grease.

SAFE OPERATING PRACTICES:

Set Up:

• Ladders must be placed on firm, level footing and secured against slippage (pads of safety feet in level contact with the floor).

• Side rails of extension ladders should extend at least 3 feet above the access point.

• Extension ladders are erected at an angle of 4:1 (every 4 feet up the base of the ladder is 1 foot from the wall).

• Step ladders must be opened fully, and spreaders locked before climbing.

• Upper and lower sections of extension ladders overlapped to provide stability.

• Ensure ladders are not blocking doorways, barricade the area if necessary.

• Secure the top of extension ladders or have a second person hold the ladder.

• Use a non-conductive ladder when working near electrical equipment.

Safe Use:

• Face the ladder when ascending and descending and keep your hips between the rails.

• Maintain 3 points of contact at all times (1 hand and 2 feet or 2 hands and 1 foot).

• Only one person is permitted on a ladder at the same time.

• Do not stand above the third rung or step from the top of the ladder or the above the point at which the ladder touches the wall or supporting structure.

• Grasp the rungs rather than side rails for added safety if a foot slips.

• Use a tool belt or rope to raise tools. Hands should only be engaged in climbing, not holding tools.

• Ensure soles of shoes are clean and not slippery.

• Do not overreach: the center of your body should not break the plane of the side rail of the ladder. Climb down the ladder and reposition if needed. Do not attempt to walk or jog the ladder.

• Be aware of surroundings when carrying ladders. Pay particular attention to overhead obstacles and people around to avoid striking them. Get help when carrying long or heavy ladders.

• You must be physically fit to work on a ladder. Do not use ladders if:

• You tire easily

• Are subject to fainting spells

• Have a sore back, legs, arms or hands

• Have dizziness, nausea or lightheadedness

• Taking medicine that may affect your balance or concentration

• If you experience a dizzy spell on a ladder:

• Stop and drape your arms over a rung - Wait until the spell passes

• Slowly and carefully descend the ladder

• Return ladders to a designated ladder storage area when not in use.

Document Revision History

Rev. Description of Change Approved Date Approved By

0 New 01-07-2022 C. Vo

Use of ladders procedure Test