Ladder Safety
Posted: February 13th, 2012 | Author: jsabuilder | Filed under: Safety Tip | No Comments »
The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries cautions that the risk of ladder falls can increase during the holiday season when workers are hanging and removing holiday decorations. They recommend the following ladder safety tips:
• Carefully inspect the ladder for defects, cracks and corrosion before use. Tag and remove from service any ladders deemed unsafe.
• Make sure the ladder’s feet have slip-resistant pads.
• Use a fiberglass ladder around electricity.
• When setting up a ladder, look for a location with firm, level footing and a rigid support for the top of the ladder.
• Always use three-point contact when climbing a ladder (this means never carrying a load while ascending or descending the ladder – finding a partner to hand decorations up and down to you while you are working is a great idea, or use a backpack or pulley system to avoid hauling them up yourself while climbing).
• Never stand on the top of a ladder.
• Do not pull, stretch or make sudden movements that could cause a ladder to tip.
• Avoid placing ladders near doorways, pedestrian walkways or vehicular traffic.
Don’t forget that these tips are relevant for ladder safety around the home as well, as you are putting up and taking down your holiday decorations year-round. And remember, using a spotter is always a good idea!
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