March is National Ladder Safety month, and as spring is around the corner, it’s the perfect time to review safe ladder usage for building maintenance. While studies show a decrease of 21 per cent in ladder-related accidents from 2020 to 2024, conducting an annual ladder safety review can keep your employees safe and your business thriving.
Whether you are changing lights or cleaning gutters as part of your maintenance duties, here are some factors to keep in mind when practicing safe ladder use this spring:
- Assess the risks to determine if fall protection is necessary.
- Ensure that the weight capacity exceeds the weight of the person using the ladder, along with the required tools.
- Examine the ladder for cracks, loose or corroded rivets, defective braces, or parts (including the slip resistant feet) that are in poor condition. Make sure it is free of grease, oil, or other slippery substances.
- Set the ladder up on even or soft ground. Check for cracks and uneven surfaces before you extend the ladder – never place a ladder on top of another object.
- Wear proper PPE that may include non-slip footwear, hard hat, gloves, and safety glasses.
- Once it’s extended, lock it into place so it stays where it is supposed to.
- When going up or down, always face the ladder, while maintaining three-point contact (2 hands and a foot or both feet and one hand).
- Carry tools in a belt whenever possible to keep your hands free to climb the ladder.
- Keep the ladder close to the work area to avoid having to reach out away from the ladder. Keep both feet on the ladder at all times to remain steady.
- Keep ladders away from power lines, and if electricity is a hazard, a fibreglass ladder should be used.
Protect your employees year-round with safe maintenance practices, including responsible ladder use.
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