|
OSHA Ladder Safety
- Inspect every ladder prior to
every use.
- Do not use ladders with structural defects; properly tag with "Do Not Use" and withdraw from service.
- Carry ladders parallel to the ground.
- Tie ladders down securely when transporting.
- Keep ladders free of oil, grease and other hazards.
- Do not load ladder beyond maximum intended load.
- Use only for the purpose for which the ladder was designed (refer to manufacturer's labeling and recommendations).
- Barricade traffic areas in vicinity of ladder use. Lock, barricade or guard doorways in which a ladder is placed.
- Keep area around the top and bottom of ladder clear.
- Never "WALK" a ladder.
- Use only non-conductive side rails around live electrical equipment.
- Do not use top or top step for standing/stepping.
- Do not stand on cross bracing.
- Always face the ladder when ascending or descending.
- Always maintain three points of contact with the ladder (two feet/one hand or two hands/one foot should be in contact with ladder at all times).
- Carry tools in pouches around waist; use a rope to raise or lower large items such as tool boxes or materials.
- Do not overextend sideways. Use the belt buckle rule: keep your belt buckle positioned between the side rails at all times, which should maintain
your center of gravity between the side rails.
- Never allow more than one worker on the ladder at a time.
- Wear protective clothing and rubber-soled shoes.
For more information on ladder safety visit the OSHA web-site:
http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/construction/falls/4ladders.html#Additional%20Examples
|
|
|
 Dr.
R. Craig Jerner, Ph.D., PE specializes in accident
investigation and metallurgical failure analysis,
with over 30 years experience as a metallurgical
consultant and accident investigator. He has
testified as a metallurgical expert in over 250
depositions and more than 70 court appearances. If you or someone you know should need the services of Dr. Jerner and J.E.I. Metallurgical, please visit our web site at the buttons below, or e-mail Dr. Jerner --- r.c.jerner@metallurgist.com |
|
