September 08, 2011

BI-WEEKLY SAFETY MEETING:

Step Ladder Safety

Step ladders! Almost everyone has some type of stepladder at home. Whether it's a two-step or a six-footer, most people are quite familiar with these ladders... possibly too familiar. While most employees would not use an extension ladder, unless it was routinely part of their job, many would not think twice about using a step ladder and thinking twice is exactly what you want them to do. Some routine tasks with step ladders include changing light bulbs, reaching top shelves in storage closets or simply cleaning of the tops of cabinets.
Once one of your workers is on that first step, it's too late to worry about safety training. If step ladders are easily available in the workplace or the office they will be used by anyone who has the need.
Hazards
Each year hundreds of workers are killed or seriously injured when working from stepladders. So what are the hazards of a simple stepladder? Actually, even though they may not be used for the heights reached by extension ladders, there are more falls from step ladders every year because they are more accessible, used more often and most employees have not received any training in their safe use. The hazards include not only slips and falls but also strains and cuts.
WHAT THEY SHOULD KNOW
If step ladders are accessible, every employee should have safety training in their use. The best way to do this is to use a step ladder as a training aid to review the parts, usage, inspection, limitations and hazards. / Parts & Inspection
The big difference between the step ladder employee’s use at home and the one they may find at work is that other people have used them and may have caused damage to the ladder. Before using a stepladder be sure you inspect it for broken, loose or missing parts. The parts include front side rails, steps, feet, latching mechanism, rear side rails and braces and platforms. Make sure your training includes what your workers should do when they find a damaged stepladder.
Safety Rules
  • Don't stand, sit or work on or above the top two steps of a stepladder
  • Don't try to retrieve anything heavy or bulky
  • Be sure the ladder is completely opened and the spreader is locked
  • Make sure the ladder is level and does not rock.
  • Inspect before each use.Check that the feet are not worn or missing, side rails and steps are not damaged or loose, no sharp edges
  • Always face the ladder and maintain a 3-point contact
  • Don't lean out or away from the sides of the ladder
  • Don't use a stepladder in front of a closed door
  • Don't lean a step ladder against a wall or furniture for support