Ladder Safety and Hazard Identification

Ladder Safety

Ladder Selection

• Choose the right ladder for the job:
  • Consider the weight capacity, height, and material
  • Select a ladder that is suitable for the task and environmental conditions
• Inspect the ladder before use:
  • Check for damage, wear, and tear
  • Ensure all rungs are secure and level
  • Verify that the ladder is properly labeled and rated

Hazard Identification

• Identify potential hazards:
  • Slippery or uneven surfaces
  • Overreaching or leaning to the side
  • Incorrect ladder placement or angle
  • Electrical or other hazards in the surrounding area
• Be aware of environmental factors:
  • Weather conditions (e.g. wind, rain, ice)
  • Poor lighting or visibility

Fall Prevention

• Always maintain three points of contact:
  • Two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand
• Face the ladder when ascending or descending:
  • Avoid twisting or turning on the ladder
• Use ladder safety accessories:
  • Leveling devices or stabilizers
  • Anti-slip feet or ladder mats

OSHA Regulations

• General requirements:
  • Ladders must be able to support the weight of the user and any materials
  • Ladders must be maintained in good condition
• Specific regulations:
  • Ladder rungs must be evenly spaced and securely attached
  • Ladder feet must be slip-resistant
  • Ladders must be used on a firm, level surface
  • Maximum weight capacity must be clearly marked on the ladder

Ladder Safety

Ladder Selection

• Consider weight capacity, height, and material when choosing a ladder for the job
• Ensure the ladder is suitable for the task and environmental conditions
• Inspect the ladder before use, checking for damage, wear, and tear
• Verify all rungs are secure and level, and the ladder is properly labeled and rated

Hazard Identification

• Slippery or uneven surfaces are potential hazards
• Overreaching or leaning to the side can lead to accidents
• Incorrect ladder placement or angle can cause falls
• Electrical or other hazards in the surrounding area must be considered
• Weather conditions (e.g. wind, rain, ice) affect ladder safety
• Poor lighting or visibility can increase the risk of accidents

Fall Prevention

• Maintain three points of contact with the ladder: two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand
• Face the ladder when ascending or descending to avoid twisting or turning
• Use ladder safety accessories: leveling devices, stabilizers, anti-slip feet, or ladder mats
• Ensure hands are free of gloves or other objects that may affect grip

OSHA Regulations

• Ladders must support the weight of the user and any materials
• Ladders must be maintained in good condition
• Rungs must be evenly spaced and securely attached
• Ladder feet must be slip-resistant
• Ladders must be used on a firm, level surface
• Maximum weight capacity must be clearly marked on the ladder