Falls when working at height remain the most common cause of workplace fatalities, accounting for 36% of all worker deaths, with many of these deaths involving serious falls from ladders.
In this blog, we will explore some of the most common ladder hazards and share some precautions you can take to ensure that you remain safe and injury-free next time you use a ladder.
1. Damaged or faulty ladder
Precaution: Inspect the ladder before each use
Damage to your ladder like missing rungs, worn-out feet or even just cracks and dents can all cause it to fail, putting yourself and others around you in danger of serious injuries.
Ladders should be inspected for damage and faults before each and every use, and a more thorough inspection should be carried out at least 2 to 4 times per year. For specific inspection points and maintenance recommendations, it is also always a wise idea to check the manufacturer’s guidelines and instructions.
2. Incorrect ladder selection
Precaution: Choose the right ladder for the job
Choosing a ladder that is the correct size, material and style for your task is essential for your safety. For example, if your ladder is too short for the task, you may be forced to overreach, which risks the ladder becoming unbalanced and toppling over. Or, if you decide to use a metal ladder for work near electrical hazards, you risk becoming electrocuted.
This is why it is always recommended that you research which ladder will be best for your job. For example, if you’re working near electrical hazards, use a fibreglass ladder that will not conduct electricity.
You should also always check the weight capacity of the ladder you are planning to use to make sure it is safe to use with your weight plus the weight of any materials you may be carrying.
3. Poor climbing technique
Precaution: Maintain three points of contact and always face the ladder
When climbing or descending a ladder, you should always make sure maintain three points of contact at all times, whether it’s two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand. This will ensure you always have a strong grip on the ladder and will help to prevent falls and injuries.
It is also important to remember to always face the ladder, whether ascending or descending!
4. Risky ladder placement
Precaution: Secure the ladder properly and stay aware of your surroundings
When setting up your ladder, you should always make sure it is on firm, level ground and in a safe environment. This means staying aware of any overhead power lines, traffic or other potential hazards when setting up your ladder.
Make sure to double-check the feet of your ladder or any dirt or debris that could reduce the traction between the ladder and the ground. If you must use the ladder on a soft surface, place a sturdy board under its feet for added stability.
When securing your ladder, remember the 4:1 rule - for every 4 feet of ladder height, the base of the ladder should be 1 foot away from the surface it is leaning against.
For more information on how to operate a ladder safely, visit our blog on essential ladder safety rules or get in touch with a member of our team by clicking the button below.
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