Using a ladder incorrectly or that is poorly maintained can have disastrous results! OSHA suggests the following steps to help keep you safe:
· Inspect ladders to identify any visible defects that could cause injury which may include replacing any worn non-slip tape from the rungs. Remove any ladder with structural or other defects from service.
· Maintain “3 points of contact” when climbing up or down ladders and do not carry any object or load that could cause a loss of balance or fall while climbing up or down the ladder.
· Use portable ladders only on stable and level surfaces unless they are secured or stabilized to prevent accidental displacement.
· Do not move, shift, or extend any portable ladder while in use.
· Guard portable ladders with a temporary barricade or secure the ladders to prevent accidental displacement.
· Never use top caps of step ladders as a step.
· Never place a portable ladder on a box, barrel, pallet, or other unstable base to obtain additional height.
· Do not move a mobile ladder stand or platform when in use.
· Equip mobile ladder stands and platforms that have wheels or casters with a system to impede horizontal movement when a worker is on the stand or platform.
· Provide a ladder safety system or personal fall arrest system on each fixed ladder that extends more than 24 feet above a lower level.
