Use of Ladders

• Fall from Heights
• Hand/Foot Injury
• Pinch points
• Weather Conditions
• Slips/Trips
• Electrical Shock
• Ladder Collapse

• Manufacturers’ Specifications
• Hazard Assessment
• Reliable weather-monitoring tools (Environment Canada, AccuWeather, etc.)

Personal Protective Equipment:

• Basic PPE: Safety Footwear
• Task Specific PPE: Gloves

• Health and Safety Orientation

1. Conduct a Hazard Assessment prior to starting work.
2. Select the appropriate ladder for the task. (e.g., Step Ladder, A-Frame Ladder, Extension Ladder).
3. Ladders shall be inspected prior to each use. Inspections shall be documented and damaged ladders shall be tagged “out of service.”
4. Ensure each ladder extends smoothly without binding and that all parts are in good working condition in accordance with the Manufacturer’s preventative maintenance and inspection procedure.
5. Ensure ladder is placed on level ground and a solid base.
6. Extend the ladder as needed and if above roof level, ensure that the ladder exceeds the roof by at least 1 metre/3 feet.
7. Extension Ladders must be set up so the base is out 1 metre/3feet for every 4 metres/12 feet up (4:1) to ensure the ladder is at the proper slope.
8. After the ladder is placed in the desired location, secure the ladder in place including securing the locking arms in place.
9. Extension ladders shall be tied off at the top. Another worker must hold the ladder until the tie-off is complete.

During Operation

1. Always maintain 3-points of contact and face the ladder when ascending or descending.
2. Do not carry heavy tools or materials in your hands when climbing a ladder.
3. Do not leave tools on the top of the rung of the ladder.
4. Ladders shall not be placed near doorways, roadways or equipment access routes, unless the door or access route is made temporarily inoperable and signs are posted.
5. Ensure materials are not placed in proximity to the base or landing of the ladder.
6. Keep ladders and footwear clean of mud, grease or other slippery materials such as snow or ice that could cause loss of footing.
7. Do not stand on the top two rungs of any ladder. On a step ladder, the cap is not considered a rung.
8. Ladders are not a substitute for a safe work platform, as they are to be used for access/egress only.

Post Operation

1. Store ladder properly after use in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications.
2. Report any damage or defects immediately and tag the ladder “out of service.”