When selecting the ladder for the job, you need to consider the height that you will be working at and the height that you can safely reach to. We recommend always choosing a ladder slightly higher than you might need to avoid overreach and follow the instructions on the ladder for safe use.
Style, size, duty rating and material are the four key elements to understand when choosing the right ladder for the job.
Consider size, duty rating, style, and material when selecting a ladder B. Inspect the ladder before every use C. Never climb a damaged ladder D. Ensure the proper set-up and stability of the ladder All of these considerations are important in maximizing your safety while climbing.
Explanation: The safer choice when selecting a ladder is a folding ladder. Folding ladders are designed to be more stable and secure than other types of ladders. They typically have a wider base and anti-slip features, which reduce the risk of accidents or falls.
Fiberglass ladders are non-conductive, so it's safe to use them near power lines and electrical wiring. They are also durable, weather-resistant, flame-resistant and built to last many years.
Always set up the ladder on a flat, stable surface. If this isn't possible then use a ladder that includes ladder safety devices like leg levellers, anti-slip gutter guards and stabilisers. Always maintain three points of contact when climbing or descending the ladder.
OSHA's Ladder Standard (1926.1053) Overview
There are three specific types of ladders OSHA identifies: self-supporting portable ladders/step ladders. non-self-supporting portable ladders/extension ladders. fixed ladders/stairways.
Final Verdict. After testing in our lab and at home, our pick for the best ladder, overall, is the Bauer Corporation 6-Foot Fiberglass Folding Step Ladder. This ladder impressed us with its sturdiness and light weight, and it is the perfect height for most tasks inside and outside of the house.
A ladder safety standard, the 4-to-1 rule state that the ladder should be 1 foot away from the wall for every 4 feet the ladder rises. This allows for maximum stability. So, for instance, if the ladder touches the wall 8 feet off the ground, the base of the ladder should be 2 feet away from the wall.
Stepladders or folding steps are therefore particularly recommended for seniors. A safety ladder with comfortable handling should have some elements that give you additional support and allow you to stand safely even with tools in your hands.
The base of the ladder should be placed so that it is one foot away from the building for every four feet of hight to where the ladder rests against the building. This is known as the 4 to 1 rule.
When searching for a new job, it's important to assess factors such as company values, work environment, and compensation to ensure the role aligns with your personality and career goals. Before applying or accepting an offer, create a list of criteria the company should meet.
Maintain a 3-point contact (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand) when climbing/ descending a ladder. Stay near the middle of the ladder and face the ladder while climbing up/down. Use a barricade to keep traffic away from the ladder.
Aluminum ladders are a popular choice in this category due to their lightweight yet sturdy construction. The 1400 Series Step Ladder, for example, offers increased weight capacity for heavier-duty tasks, making it ideal for construction sites or warehouses.
Platform Ladders
Platform are similar to step ladders but they provide a larger standing area, making them ideal for tasks that require extended periods of work at a height. They offer additional safety and comfort, reducing fatigue for workers.
For example, if you are working near sources of electricity, a metal ladder should be rejected since aluminum is an electrical conductor. Your body can complete an electrical circuit between the electrical power source, the ladder, and then to the ground in the event of a live wire contact incident.
Using the Wrong Ladder
Use the right type for the job, as settled by the risk assessment. It's also unsafe to work from the top three rungs of any leaning ladder or the top three steps of any step ladder. Ignoring this rule can lead to overbalancing, a consistent cause of ladder accidents.
Select a ladder based on the expected load capacity (duty rating), the type of work to be done and the correct height.
The experts at Werner recommend paying attention to four key elements when choosing a ladder: height, duty rating, material, and style. Height refers to the ladder's reach requirements.