5. Use Safe Work Practices
- always follow manufacturer's recommendations for proper use
- tie, block or otherwise secure the ladder to prevent it from being displaced
- when climbing and descending on ladders always face the ladder and keep 3 alternate contact points (two feet and one hand or two hands and one foot)
- whenever possible perform your work in-line with the ladder, not on either side
- if you need to perform work on either side of the ladder have a co-worker hold the ladder
- only use extension ladders to access and come down from elevated landings and work surfaces
- extend the ladder used for access at least 36 inches above the elevated landing or work surface
- make sure hinges on stepladders are fully open and locked
- have co-workers hand up tools and equipment instead of carrying them when on a ladder
- wear shoes with slip resistant soles
- clean mud and other slippery substances off your shoes and ladder rungs before climbing the ladder
- only one person at a time should be on a given ladder unless the ladder is specially designed to hold more than one person at a time (e.g., double sided or mechanics ladders)
- when moving an extension ladder always retract the "fly" section(s)
- when carrying a ladder keep the back section(s) lower than the front
- store ladders to protect them from weathering effects
- when using extension ladders consider using fall protection systems
- use damaged or defective ladders or ladders inappropriate for the specific job
- hand carry loads or equipment while on a ladder
- reach to the point where you loose your balance; move the ladder instead
- stand or work on the top cap or the step below the top cap of a stepladder
- stand or work on the top 3 rungs of an extension ladder
- place ladders on boxes, barrels, pick- up trucks or scaffolds or equipment
- use portable ladders in a horizontal position as a plank, platform, runaway, or scaffold
- splice together short ladders to make longer ladders
- use ladders with only a single rail
- use ladders in high winds