Many workers have to use ladders on a daily basis, and they often stop thinking about the danger. But the truth is that you can get severely hurt in a fall from a ladder, whether it’s 20 feet high or just a step ladder in a stockroom. It’s important to know how to use ladders safely.
First and foremost, you want to make sure that you have the right ladder for the job. Make sure that it’s tall enough and made out of the right materials. You also have to decide if you’ll need an extendable ladder or a step ladder that folds open and closed. These all have different benefits and disadvantages, and it’s safest to have the ladder that is best designed for the job.
Other safety steps you can take
Once you know that you have the right ladder, here are a few safety points to keep in mind:
- Set the ladder up on a firm foundation that is completely level.
- Always face the ladder when climbing or working.
- Always keep 3 points of contact on the ladder.
- Check the ladder’s weight rating to make sure you don’t exceed it when carrying parts and materials.
- If you do have to carry items up the ladder, do so in a way that allows you to still use your hands and feet to hold the rungs.
- Always conduct ladder inspections before setting them up.
These tips can help you stay safe, but it is always possible to be injured in a fall. If this happens to you, be sure you know what legal options you have to seek workers’ compensation.
