Construction worker ladder safety

Construction work could not exist without ladders.

Enforcing ladder safety is of prime importance to OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Ladder manufacturers need to conform to OSHA standards where ladders must support at least four times its maximum intended load. Ladder angles also need to be positioned at a specific distance of ¼ the working length of the ladder. Ladder rungs, or steps, must be evenly spaced between 10 and 14 inches apart, and be skid-resistant.

In construction work, three main types of ladders are used: stepladders, extension ladders and multi-purpose. Ladders for indoor use are usually stepladders or multi-purpose ladders.

Outdoor construction work usually calls for longer stepladders or various sizes of extension ladders. Many companies provide fiberglass ladders for safety around power lines.

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Construction workers and their supervisors should inspect ladders before use and periodically during the work. Check the rungs, side rails, feet and all bolts and other fasteners. Remove or clean any moisture or oily areas on the ladder. Always use a ladder with the correct capacity for weight, including body and all equipment attached to body or tool belt.

For safety’s sake, two people should set up a ladder. Keep ladders and tolls ten feet from power lines and other hazards or obstructions. Ladders must be set on level ground, or must be leveled with approved levelers. Tie down a ladder that does not have slip-resistant feet.

Extension ladders must be locked, overlapping the extension layers according to the height of the ladder.

Stepladders should always have all four legs placed on level and solid ground or surface. Lock the stepladder in fully-open position.

OSHA mandates that workers wear work shoes with slip-resistant soles to prevent slipping.

To prevent falls, face the ladder and maintain two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand. Never hold objects in your hands while climbing.

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To prevent tipping, center your body between sides of ladder when climbing, don't climb up or down sides of a ladder and don't slide down a ladder. Secure a ladder with ties or have someone hold the ladder. Never use a ladder in strong winds.

Have you or a family member suffered a serious ladder injury at work? Find out if you qualify for a workers’ compensation lawsuit in Pa. or NJ.

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