Ladders
Hazard
Use of a damaged or improperly set up ladder exposes workers to various risks of injury. For example, a ladder that fails or becomes unstable while a worker is on the ladder exposes that worker to the hazard of a fall from height.
Prevention
Manufactured portable ladders must be marked for the grade of material used to construct the ladder and the use for which the ladder is constructed.
For job built ladders, they must be constructed according to WorkSafeBC Standard: LDR 1-2004 Job Built Ladders.
Ladders used for access to another level cannot be stepladders and must be placed on a firm and level base, positioned so that the horizontal distance from the base to vertical plane of support is approximately ¼ of the ladder length, must have sufficient length to project approximately 1 m (3 ft) above the upper landing to which it provides access, and be secured to ensure stability during use. A worker must not carry on a ladder, heavy or bulky objects or any other objects which may make ascent or descent unsafe.
Practice
If work cannot be done from a ladder without hazard to a worker, a work platform must be provided. Damaged ladders must be taken out of service immediately - See the Safe Work Practice for taking a tool or piece of equipment out of service.
| All Ladders - Do | All Ladders - Don't |
|---|---|
| · Inspect ladders for damage and proper function prior to using on a task. · Tag and remove from service if a ladder is in questionable condition. · Set the ladder on a firm, level surface. · Secure the ladder appropriately to prevent inadvertent movement. · Face the ladder and maintain three points of contact when ascending or descending. · Keep your centre of gravity between the side rails. Your belt buckle should never be outside the side rails. · Keep hands free for climbing. Hoist tools and equipment with hand lines or carry up in suitable tool belts or bags · Know the physical limitations of the ladder – read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on use and storage found on the label. · Store the step ladder in its designated area. | · Use a ladder that has not been inspected prior to use. · Use a defective or damaged ladder. · Paint or treat wooden ladders, as doing so may hide damage and cause the ladder to fail during use. · Use conductive or metal-reinforced ladders on or near energized electrical equipment. · Allow material or debris to collect at the base of a ladder. · Overreach sideways on a ladder. Reposition the ladder to assure adequate support. · Assume a rung is where you think it might be (take a second look at your footing). · Stand or step on the last step (rung) or the top (shelf) of a ladder. · Use ladders on ice, snow or other slippery surfaces without securing the ladder's feet. |
| Step Ladders - Do's | Step Ladders - Don't |
| · Open the ladder, secure the spreader bars into position and lock prior to access. | · Carry anything in your hand(s) while either ascending or descending a step ladder. · Use a step ladder that is leaning in position instead of being properly extended in the fully opened position. · Leave or store items on top of the ladder (shelf) and walk away. |
| Extension Ladders - Do | Extension Ladders - Don't |
| · Clear material away from the base and top of the ladder. · Erect extension ladders so that the upper section rests on (e.g., in front of) the bottom section. This placement means the bottom section "faces" a wall or other supporting surface. · Place the ladder feet so that the horizontal distance between the feet and the top support is 1/4 of the working length of the ladder. The ladder will be leaning at a 75-degree angle from the ground. · Raise and lower ladders from the ground. · Ensure that locking ladder hooks are secure before climbing. · Maintain the minimum overlap of sections as shown on a ladder label. | · Set up or take a ladder down when it is extended. · Overextend the ladder. Maintain minimum overlap of sections. · Extend the top section of a ladder from above or by "bouncing" on a ladder. |
References
- B.C. OHS Regulation
Part 13 Ladders, Scaffolds, and Temporary Work Platforms
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