{"id":915,"date":"2022-04-11T08:41:13","date_gmt":"2022-04-11T08:41:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.safetymint.com\/blog\/?p=915"},"modified":"2024-08-22T13:25:31","modified_gmt":"2024-08-22T13:25:31","slug":"osha-ladder-safety","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.safetymint.com\/blog\/osha-ladder-safety\/","title":{"rendered":"OSHA Ladder Safety \u2013 Everything you need to know"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Did you know that ladder-related injuries are among the top three workplace safety violations in the US in 2021?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This comes at a time when fall protection is at the top of the workplace safety standard violations \u2014 for the 11th year in a row.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This shows how vulnerable the workers are when working at heights<\/a> and the need for strong measures in place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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By following OSHA\u2019s ladder safety guidelines, organizations can prevent many such injuries and accidents to create a safer working environment. Let\u2019s look at some of the crucial OSHA ladder safety guidelines you need to know:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

OSHA Ladder Safety Guidelines \u2014 5 Ground Rules to Follow<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

1. Inspect the Ladder Before Every Use<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Before using a ladder, make sure all locks are engaged securely and the steps are free of grease, oil and other slippery substances. Also, inspect ladders for defects such as missing components, cracks, frayed ropes, corrosion or other problems that could cause them to fail or break. Any damaged ladders must be removed from service until repaired.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Choose the Right Ladder for the Job<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are different types of ladders for various purposes. And you need to be sure to choose the right ladder for the job you are doing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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A straight ladder<\/strong> is the most common type of ladder. It is best suited for tasks that require you to climb up and down, such as painting a wall or cleaning windows. Each step in a straight ladder should support a load of at least 250 pounds, according to OSHA<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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A portable ladder<\/strong> is a ladder on wheels and can be moved around easily. This is helpful for tasks that require you to be at different heights, such as stocking shelves. Portable ladders should have corrugated and dimpled surfaces with a skid-resistant coating to prevent easy slippage, along with a secure lock to hold the ladder in place when working.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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A step ladder<\/strong> is shorter than a straight ladder (around 6 to 30 feet) and has steps. According to OSHA, the step ladders must extend at least 42 inches above your access level or any other platform. This makes it more stable and ideal for tasks that require you to be closer to the ground, such as reaching a high shelf or changing a lightbulb.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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A scaffold<\/strong> is a platform supported by a frame and is used for tasks requiring you to be at a certain height for an extended period, such as painting a ceiling or working on a value on a top floor.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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An extension ladder<\/strong> is taller than a straight ladder and can be extended to reach even higher heights. This is perfect for tasks out of reach of a normal straight ladder.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

3. Place the Ladder on a Stable, Level Surface<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ladders can slip or collapse if not placed on a stable, level surface. Ensure the area around the ladder is free of clutter and that the ladder is not placed on anything that could cause it to move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If it all, you need to place the ladder on slippery surfaces, secure them strongly and use barricades to keep the ladder away from the people moving around. According to OSHA, you need to anchor the ladders when placing them in the doorways, driveways or passageways.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Exercise Caution When Using the Ladder<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Never use any ladder with a back step or pole extending out from the bottom rung unless it supports specific weight limitations or is specified by the manufacturer as safe. Don’t forget about the ever-important fall prevention measures such as using non-slip shoes and footing, placing objects under or between ladders, and using proper lifting techniques with tools and materials to prevent injury in case of a fall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And when you\u2019re on the ladder, make sure to stay clear of overhead power lines and communication towers when working nearby to avoid tripping hazards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Stay on Top of Maintenance<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Make sure that all ladders are inspected before every use and current with the latest safety codes. Inspect for worn or frayed ropes, proper fasteners, and other safety issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Apart from the above, here are a few more practical things you need to keep in mind when working with ladders:<\/p>\n\n\n\n