Construction Safety Insights
| Ladder Selection Choosing the right type of ladder for your job is important: 1. Step Ladder (great for tasks at low to medium level) 2. Extension Ladder (great for tasks at high level) 3. Platform Ladder (great for tasks just a few feet off the ground) Check the duty rating of your chosen ladder and be sure to not exceed it: + Special Duty (375 lbs.), Extra Heavy Duty (300 lbs.), Heavy Duty (250 lbs.), Medium Duty (225 lbs.), Light Duty (200 lbs.) Ensure your chosen ladder is made with material that makes sense for your job (Ex. do not use an aluminum ladder when working near power lines). Ladder Inspection + You must inspect your ladder at least before each use. + When inspecting your ladder look for issues such as: Cracked or bent parts, any loose or missing hardware, and damaged feet, rails, or rungs +If a ladder is damaged, tag it out and either throw it away immediately or report it to the correct personnel so it can be repaired. Positioning + Make sure the ladder is placed on a firm, level, and non-slippery surface. + When using extension ladders, remember that for every 4 feet of height, there must be at least 1 foot in between the ladder’s base and the wall. + Tie off at least the top of extension ladders when in use, and the bottom too if possible. Climbing + When climbing a ladder, be sure to maintain the three points of contact (either two hands and one foot touching the ladder or two feet and one hand on the ladder). + When climbing, always face the ladder, keep your body centered on the ladder, and climb at a slow methodical pace. + At the top of the ladder, do not stand on the highest rung and be careful of overreaching. |
| If you would like more information about fall protection or access to additional resources, feel free to reach out to your Risk Solutions team at OVD Insurance. |
