Ladder Use

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32 Ladder Use

Learning Objective

Employ safe ladder use technique.

Key Question

Are there steps I can take to minimize hazards while using a ladder?

Introduction

Ladders are used at work for many different tasks. They are best for light-duty tasks that can be completed in 15 minutes or less and for accessing a work area such as a roof, mezzanine or scaffolding. Working at heights – including on a ladder – always involves the risk of falling. The following are some tips to help you and your co-workers prevent a fall from a ladder.

Understand the Risk

Before choosing a ladder or any other type of equipment for working at heights, you must assess the risks. When deciding which type of equipment is safest and most suitable for your task, ask yourself these questions.

Can the tasks be done from the ground?

Working at heights always involves the risk of falling, so consider your options before grabbing the nearest ladder. Even when your task is above grade, with the appropriate equipment it might be possible to get the job done from the ground.

Are there safer alternatives to using a ladder?

If you can’t avoid working at heights, consider using safer alternatives to a ladder such as a work platform, stairs or a ramp. Here are some things to think about when deciding which equipment is best for the job:
- the time required to complete the task.
- the number of workers who will need to use the equipment.
- whether the equipment will need to be repositioned during the task.
- the weight of the tools needed to complete the task.
- the materials and equipment needed to complete the task.
- whether heavy or bulky items need to be lifted or positioned.
- the height of the work area or task and whether workers will need fall protection.
- the physical and environmental conditions in the work area.
When is a ladder suitable?
Ladders may be suitable for:
- accessing a work area such as a roof, mezzanine or scaffolding.
- minor maintenance tasks such as caulking, touch-up painting, inspecting gutters or other light-duty tasks that take no more than 15 minutes to complete.

Choosing the Right Ladder

Make sure you choose a ladder that is tall enough for you to safely access your work area or reach your task. The ladder must also be strong enough to hold you and your tools and suitable for your work environment. Here are some things you need to think about when choosing a ladder

Is the ladder tall enough?

In addition to the ladder’s height, you must consider the following factors:

The highest rung or step you are allowed to step or stand on
- Always follow the instructions on the manufacturer’s label
Your height
- You should be able to comfortably reach your task without standing on the top two rungs or steps of your ladder, unless it is a stepladder with a platform and handrail (see Saskatchewan Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2020 16-7(2)). If you can’t comfortably reach your task, you need a taller ladder.
Is the ladder suitable for your task?
- Check the load and duty ratings on the manufacturer’s label. Make sure your ladder can handle the combined weight of you and your tools.
- Use a ladder made of non-conductive materials, such as fiberglass, when doing electrical work
Set-up requirements
- See Set-Up Requirements section below.

Inspect the Ladder

Inspect ladders before each use. If you find a ladder that is damaged or in poor condition, remove it from service and report it to your supervisor or employer.

Choose a Safe Location

Choose a location that allows you to set up and work on your ladder safely. Identify and address all hazards in your work area before you set up your ladder.

Hazards to watch for:

Working at heights always involves the risk of falling, so consider your options before grabbing the nearest ladder. Even when your task is above grade, with the appropriate equipment it might be possible to get the job done from the ground.

Uneven, unstable or wet surfaces

Look for a location that allows you to place the base of your ladder on a firm and level surface.
If you must work on wet ground, brace the base of your ladder to keep it in place.
If you must work on uneven ground, consider using leg levellers.
Do not place your ladder on unstable surfaces such as boxes or pallets.

Obstacles or Constricted Areas

Look for a location that has enough room for you to properly set up your ladder.
Look for a location that allows you to step on and off your ladder safely. The areas at the top and base of your ladder should be clear of tools, material, equipment and debris.
Avoid placing the base of your ladder near edges, openings or sloping surfaces.
Avoid placing your ladder near objects that will restrict your movement or cause you to lean outside your ladder’s side rails.

Pedestrian and Vehicle Traffics

If people, vehicles or mobile equipment might pass near or underneath your ladder, consider putting up warning signs or pylons, using barricade tape,
blocking doors or adjusting the job schedule.

Overhead Electrical Hazards

Make sure you correctly identify any overhead conductors in your work area so that you can stay the required distance away from them.

Environmental Hazards

Avoid setting up or working from your ladder during strong winds, heavy rain or snow, or when icy conditions are present.

Set-Up Requirements

A ladder that is set up incorrectly puts you and other workers at risk of serious injury. Make sure that you meet all the following key requirements when you set up your ladder. Always follow the instructions on your ladder’s manufacturer’s label.

Straight or Extension Ladders

Place the base of your ladder on a firm and level surface.
- Make sure that both feet are on the ground.
- Use leg levellers on uneven surfaces.
- On wet or unstable ground, brace the base to keep it in place, such as by nailing a two-by-four to the ground.
- Do not place a ladder on unstable surfaces such as boxes or pallets.
Set up your ladder at the required angle.
- Use the 4-to-1 rule: for every four feet (1.2 meters) up, place the base of your ladder one foot (0.3 meters) from the wall or upper support that it rests against.
- To check that you ladder is at the 4-t-1 angle, stand with your toes at your ladder’s base and extend your arms straight out. If your fingertips touch the rung nearest to your shoulder level, your ladder should be at the 4-to-1 angle.
Position and secure your ladder for safe access.
- If you will be getting off the top of your ladder to access your work area, your ladder’s side rails must extend at least one meter (three feet) above the level or upper landing you are accessing. Tie off your ladder’s side rails at the top.
Place the top of your ladder against a stable surface.
- Make sure both side rails are equally supported unless your ladder is equipped with a single-support attachment.

Stepladders

Place the base on a firm and level surface.
Make sure that all four feet are on the ground.
Open and lock the spreader bars.