Ladders are one of the most commonly used pieces of equipment in many businesses. Check any supply or maintenance closet, and you’ll probably find ladders of various sizes. Ladders are very useful in many situations; however, because they’re so frequently used, many people don’t think about taking safety precautions while using them.
Falls, even from short ladders, can cause serious injuries to employees. Keeping employees safe is critical for any business, and expensive fall claims can negatively affect the bottom line. Common ladder accidents include falls due to overreaching, improper positioning, or unstable footing. These accidents can cause significant injuries, from head injuries to broken bones. Injured employees sometimes require surgery or physical therapy before they can return to work. Preventing such incidents is crucial for protecting employees and controlling workers’ compensation costs.
Ladder Safety Tips for the Workplace
Employers should ensure that any employees who use ladders are properly trained before using them. Posting ladder safety tips and regularly reminding staff members about safe ladder usage can go a long way in keeping employees safe. Here are some key steps to help prevent injuries:
Choose the right ladder.
Select a ladder that’s tall enough for the task and verify the weight capacity is adequate for both the employee and any equipment they’ll carry onto the ladder with them.
Inspect before use.
Ensure that all ladders are inspected regularly, including before each use. There should be no missing bolts, rivets, or fasteners. Feet and rungs should be securely in place. On rolling ladders, it’s critical to also ensure the:
- Rubber feet/caps are in place on the ladder feet and the wheels properly retract.
- Rubber caps haven’t become hard or brittle, and the ladder frame hasn’t pushed through the feet, decreasing the traction available.
- Wheel/spring assemblies move freely and aren’t stuck or wedged down, preventing the feet from contacting the floor.
Set up ladders properly.
If the ladder is heavy, ensure two staff members are available to move it. Ladders should be used on a level surface with feet flat on the ground and enough space to fully open and lock the spreader braces.
Use safe climbing practices.
Staff should center their bodies on the ladder and climb slowly, one step at a time. Three points of contact should be maintained with the ladder as much as possible. If employees need to move a product while ascending or descending a ladder, it should be done one step at a time to ensure stability.
Avoid overreaching or improper positioning.
Instruct staff to follow the “belt buckle rule,” keeping their belt buckle within the side rails of the ladder. To prevent falls, employees shouldn’t overreach to the side or behind them. If a task requires repositioning the ladder, the employee should get down and move the ladder while on the ground instead of shifting their weight while on the ladder.
Work safely on the ladder.
Don’t exceed the maximum weight or load capacity. If possible, have another employee hand the person on the ladder tools and equipment. Don’t allow staff to stand on the top or the second-from-the-top rung of the ladder, as this significantly reduces balance and stability.
Use locking mechanisms for rolling ladders.
As rolling ladders are replaced, select ladders with locking mechanisms that help keep them in position while in use. Ensure employees activate this feature to prevent accidents caused by unintended movement.
The Importance of Ongoing Training
Effective safety measures begin with comprehensive training for all employees who use ladders. Employers should provide initial instruction on safe ladder practices and conduct periodic refresher sessions. Posting safety guidelines in high-visibility areas can also reinforce these practices. By maintaining a culture of safety and vigilance, businesses can reduce the risk of ladder-related injuries and their associated costs.
