A ___ can safely hold two workers at a time. C. Twin Stepladder Only a twin stepladder can safely hold two workers at a time.
Fiberglass Twin Step Ladder boasts a duty rating of 375 lbs. per side, ideal for both 1- and 2-person jobs. Rugged and sturdy, the ladder includes a heavy-gauge aluminum top and heavy-duty internal spreaders to resist damage around the worksite or in transit.
Only one person at a time is permitted on a ladder unless the ladder is specifically designed for more than one climber (such as a Trestle Ladder). Never jump or slide down from a ladder or climb more than one rung/step at a time.
What is the 4-1 Rule for Ladders? The base of your ladder should extend 1 foot for every 4 feet of height between the working surface and the point of contact. When done correctly, the ladder will meet the ground at a 75-degree angle.
Ladders are designed for one person. Exceptions are Double Front Step Ladders, which may be used by two people, one on each side. Duty Ratings still apply for each side and should be carefully observed.
Working on Ladders
Climb ladders one person at a time unless the ladder is specially designed for more people. No work requiring lifting of heavy materials or substantial exertion shall be done from ladders. Move tools or equipment using a tool belt or rope tied to a bucket. Avoid leaning too far sideways.
By understanding and addressing the top three OSHA-cited ladder violations—improper usage, lack of inspections, and improper setup—employers can create a safer environment for workers. Regular ladder inspections, proper setup techniques, and worker training are all essential to ensure ladder safety.
Always maintain three points of contact when climbing or descending the ladder. This means two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand. Only take small items up or down a ladder – never large or heavy items such as building materials. Only carry items that allow you to maintain three points of contact.
The use of ladders with broken or missing rungs or steps, broken or split side rails, or other faulty or defective construction is prohibited. When ladders with such defects are discovered, they shall be immediately withdrawn from service.
Double-Cleat Ladder.
A ladder with a center rail and cleats on both sides to allow simultaneous climbing by two workers. According to OSHA 1926 Subpart X, double-cleat ladders must be used when there are 25 or more employees or when ladders serve two-way traffic.
Only one person at a time is permitted on a ladder unless the ladder is specifically designed for more than one climber (such as a Trestle Ladder). Ladders must not be placed in front of closed doors that can open toward the ladder. The door must be blocked open, locked, or guarded.
As a rule of thumb, a 15-18ft ladder will suit a single-story building while for a two-story building, a 20-22ft ladder should do the trick. However, this is only a rough guide, and you'll want to consider much more besides ladder height.
When set up as a Single or Extension Ladder, Articulated Ladders may have a length of no more than 30 feet. Heavy duty, extra heavy duty, and special duty types (I, IA, and IAA) multipurpose ladders are designed for one or two persons (to visit another website with good information about ladders, visit Werner Ladders).
The 3 points-of-contact is a method where the climber faces the center of the ladder and has either two hands and one foot, or one hand and two feet on the ladder at all times. This provides a safe stance in the case one limb loses contact with the ladder.
The slogan for the Double Pull/Ladder Pad is: “The first ladder pad designed specifically for use on a steep pitch roof.” It's a rectangle of wood with a pad that grips the top of asphalt shingles. It's perfect on sloped shingled roofs for use with telescopic ladders.
Maintain ladders free of oil, grease and other slipping hazards. Do not load ladders beyond their maximum intended load nor beyond their manufacturer's rated capacity. Use ladders only for their designed purpose. Use ladders only on stable and level surfaces unless secured to prevent accidental movement.
Check the pictogram or label on the ladder for any advisory information. To help make sure the ladder angle is at the safest position to work from- you should use the 1-in-4 rule. This is where the ladder should be one space or unit of measurement out for every four spaces or units up (a 75° angle)
Use a ladder only on a stable and level surface, unless it has been secured (top or bottom) to prevent displacement. Do not place a ladder on boxes, barrels or other unstable bases to obtain additional height. Do not move or shift a ladder while a person or equipment is on the ladder.
Metal ladders should never be used when working with or near electricity. The most common types of portable ladders are stepladders and straight ladders (which includes extension ladders.) Stepladders can range in height from 3 to 20 feet.
Cages have to be between 27 and 30 inches away from the centerline of a ladder's rungs and can't be any less than 27 inches wide. No projections are allowed inside a cage. The top of a cage has to be at least 42 inches above the point of access at the top of the ladder.
Response: 29 CFR 1910.28(b)(9)(ii)(B) requires that ladders equipped with a personal fall protection or a ladder safety system shall have rest platforms provided at maximum intervals of 150 feet (45.7 m).
This requirement ensures that all modifications align with current safety standards, offering improved protection for climbers. Furthermore, by November 18, 2036, all fixed ladders over 24 feet must be retrofitted with a PFAS or ladder safety system, regardless of whether the existing safety cage is removed.