Ladder Safety #2 – Tool Box Talk

DONLEY’S POLICY IS:
WHEREVER THERE IS A POINT OF ACCESS WITH A BREAK IN ELEVATION OF 19 INCHES OR MORE, PROVIDE STAIRWAY; LADDER; RAMP; RUNWAY; EMBANKMENT; OR PERSONNEL HOIST

USING A LADDER

  • Always face a ladder when using it.
  • Use at least one hand to grasp the ladder when ascending / descending.
  • Do not carry any object or load that could cause you to lose balance and fall.
  • Wear shoes with slip-resistant soles.

INSPECTING A LADDER

  • If ladder is damaged, tag it “Do not use”, and remove until fixed. Destroy if it can’t be fixed.
  • Here is a checklist for inspecting ladders:
  • All bolts and rivets should be secure.
  • All rung locks and other movable parts should be oiled or greased.
  • Make sure steps, rungs and other parts are free of oil, grease, and other materials.

    • STEPLADDERS

    • All four legs must be on solid, level ground.
    • The spreaders must be locked fully open.
    • Never climb on the cross-bracing. Never lean a stepladder against a wall.
    • The top or top step of a stepladder must not be used as a step.

    STRAIGHT AND EXTENSION LADDERS

    • Use at a 4:1 angle. Job-made ladders with spliced side rails must
      use an 8:1 angle.
    • When used for access, side rails must extend ≥ 3 feet above surface
      and be secured.
    • Once set-up, lock the top section in place.
    • Both rails must rest evenly on the resting spot.
    • Never work from any of the top 3 steps.
    • Lower the top section of an extension ladder before you move it.
    • Stops on top section ensure it will not fall; on bottom section ensure proper overlap. The sliding section (“fly”) must overlap the bottom section (“base”) by at least:

    SAFETY REMINDER – ALWAYS INSPECT A LADDER BEFORE USE!