Place ladders on a firm, level surface and ensure the footing is secure. Erect extension ladders so that the upper section rests on (e.g., in front of) the bottom section. This placement means the bottom section "faces" a wall or other supporting surface (see figures below).
How do you install an extension ladder on a wall?
Erect extension ladders so that the upper section rests on (e.g., in front of) the bottom section. This placement means the bottom section "faces" a wall or other supporting surface (see figures below). Place the ladder feet so that the horizontal distance between the feet and the top support is 1/4 of the working length of the ladder.
How far should a ladder extend from the edge?
Extension ladders, also known as non-self-supported or leaning ladders should extend a minimum distance of 3 feet past the edge they rest against but not more than 4 feet.
How should your hands reach when climbing an extension ladder?
The palms of your hands should just reach the ladder's rung. Ever climbed halfway up an extension ladder and felt it sliding off to one side beneath your feet? You quickly realize you should have spent a few more minutes making sure the ladder feet were solidly set before starting your climb.
Where should the fly be on an extension ladder?
For most extension ladders the fly should be on top of the base--that is, not only should it extend higher, but should on the outer/climbable side. Understand that in order to obtain the proper climbing angle, the base of the ladder should be 1/4 of the height of the extended ladder away from the building.
What is the proper placement for an extension ladder?
Set the ladder at the proper angle. When a ladder is leaned against a wall, the bottom of the ladder should be one-quarter of the ladder's working length away from the wall. For access to an elevated work surface, extend the top of the ladder three feet above that surface or secure the ladder at its top. .
Which way should a step ladder face?
Check stability. Make sure that all ladder feet are on a firm, level, and non-slippery surface. Place a stepladder at right angles to the work, with either the front or back of the steps facing the work. Keep the stepladder close to the work.
What is the 1 in 4 rule?
For every 4 feet of height, position the base of the ladder 1 foot away from the wall. In other words, the distance between the wall and the base of your ladder should be one quarter of the ladder's height (putting the ladder at a 75° angle).
What is the 4 to 1 rule for ladder safety?
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.
How do you put a ladder against gutters?
It is not recommended to place a ladder against gutters directly because it can damage them or it could potentially cause your ladder to slip resulting in a fall. Use a ladder stabilizer to place the ladder against the roof or siding of the home.
How do you install an extension ladder?
Tips and Techniques for Safe Extension Ladder Setup and UseTip 1: Set the correct angle.Tip 2: Secure the feet.Tip 3: Secure the ladder top against the wall.Tip 4: Tie the top for extra security.Tip 5: Provide a level base.
What size ladder do I need for a 20 foot roof?
SizeMax. Height You Want to ReachBuy This Size Ladder (assumes vertical 12-inch reach)14 feet10-foot16 feet12-foot18 feet14-foot20 feet16-foot6 more rows
What is the 421 rule using a ladder?
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.
When working on a leaning ladder you must never?
You should never stretch upwards and never work from the top three rungs of your ladder.
What is the biggest cause of ladder accidents?
Human errorHuman error is by far the leading cause of ladder accidents. Never use a ladder in any other way than what the manufacturer intended it to be used for. Also, do not lengthen or alter a ladder in any way. While using a ladder always maintain 3 points of contact with the ladder to ensure stability.
Does OSHA require tie off on ladders?
The quick answer is no, but let me explain why. The OSHA standard for construction (29 CFR 1926.501) requires workers to use fall protection with an unprotected edge that is 6 feet above a lower level. The standard for general industry, walking-working surfaces (1910 Subpart D) requires fall protection at 4 feet.
What is the maximum height you can climb without requiring fall protection?
Occupational health and safety laws generally require action when a worker has the potential to fall about 3 metres (10 feet). In most cases, fall protection is required when: other means of fall protection are not available or possible, such as guardrails.
How do you set a ladder on stairs?
It sets up in just 3 easy steps:Place the base on the lower stair and slide the upright into the base.Second, you slide the platform onto the upright, and lower it until the it sits level on the upper step.Third, insert the locking pins.
Is it always ascending or descending a ladder?
When climbing up or down, always: Face the stepladder. Keep your body centered between side rails. Maintain three-point contact by keeping two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand on a ladder always.
When considering the placement of a ladder before use which rule should you apply?
When is a ladder the most suitable access equipment? 4 This selection process has to take into account the hierarchy of controls: firstly to avoid work at height where possible; then to prevent falls from height; and, failing that, to reduce the consequences of a fall.
How do you use an extension ladder on stairs?
0:492:03How to use a ladder on stairs easily and safely - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFinally slide the platform into place on the upper stair. Use the locking pin to secure it in placeMoreFinally slide the platform into place on the upper stair. Use the locking pin to secure it in place as you can see there are multiple mounting holes these allow for super fine adjustments.
What is ladder extension?
There are products on the market called ladder extensions that allow the user to step through the top three feet of ladder rather than around. These products attach to the top of the ladder and are basically an extension of the side rails without the rungs.
How to set up a ladder?
Take the time to set it up the way it’s supposed to be set up. Start by leaning the ladder at a 4:1 ratio. This means that for every four feet of height between the base and where the ladder makes contact with the structure you’re leaning against, the base needs to be one foot away. Like this:
How to climb a ladder?
Don’t be distracted. Just grab the ladder with your hands and ascend it while facing it. You should maintain three points of contact with the ladder at all times and your center of gravity should be between the side rails. In order to maintain three points of contact, you will need to keep both feet and a hand on the ladder as you reach up for the next rung or both hands and a foot on the ladder as you step up (don’t be nervous, this is most likely how you already climb a ladder). The key to this, though, is to make sure you are not carrying anything. If you need to bring tools with you, they should be on a tool belt, tool vest, or something similar.#N#Make sure the ladder is locked into place before ascending and always, whether going up or down, check the ladder’s stability before placing your weight on it. Don’t ever move or adjust a ladder while somebody is on it.#N#Too many people get hurt on ladders every year, don’t become one of them. Understand the tool and how it is properly used before you use it. Sometimes the things we take for granted are the most dangerous things.
How to make sure ladder is not slippery?
Make sure that there are no dents in the rungs or other damage. Make sure they side rails are not bent or damaged. Ensure the safety feet are in place, as well as the ladder’s lanyard. Make sure the locking mechanisms are in place and all labels are legible. Make sure there is no slippery material on the ladder.
How dangerous are extension ladders?
Extension ladders: who hasn’t used one to access the roof of their home, praying every moment that it won’t fall back, slip to the side, or just buckle under your weight? A tool so common can still be extremely dangerous and the facts are alarming: 1 The United States leads the world in ladder deaths. Each year more than 164,000 people are treated from ladder injuries in the emergency room and more than 300 die from falls from ladders. 2 Most ladder deaths are from falls of 10 feet or less. 3 The number of fatalities resulting from falls from ladders has tripled in the past few decades.
How to tell if ladder is set at right angle?
A quick and easy way to tell if you’ve set the ladder up at (approximately) the correct angle is to stand with the tips of your toes touching the base. If you extend your arm and your fingertips are touching a rung then it’s about where you need it to be.
Can you move a ladder while someone is on it?
Don’t ever move or adjust a ladder while somebody is on it. Too many people get hurt on ladders every year, don’t become one of them. Understand the tool and how it is properly used before you use it. Sometimes the things we take for granted are the most dangerous things. Safety Blog.
How to set up a ladder at the right angle?
A simple rule for setting-up the ladder at the proper angle is to place the base a distance from the wall or upper support equal to one-quarter of the extended length of the ladder side rails. When ascending or descending the ladder, always face the ladder and maintain a firm hand hold.
What is an extension ladder?
The Extension Ladder is a non-self-supporting portable ladder that is adjustable in length. It consists of two or more sections that travel in guides or brackets so arranged so as to permit length adjustment. It is intended for use by one person.
How many sections are in an extension ladder?
Extension Ladders are built with either two or three adjustable telescopic sections. The maximum extended length is dependent upon the number of sections as well as the duty rating of the ladder as follows:
What angle should a ladder be set at?
In cases where the work site imposes a height restriction on the ladder length, the user may find that longer ladders are not capable of being set-up at the proper 75 1/2 degrees angle, even when fully retracted. To safeguard against the bottom of the ladder sliding out, select a shorter Extension or Single Ladder.
What type of shoes are needed for an extension ladder?
The base section of an Extension Ladder must be equipped with slip-resistant feet such as safety shoes, spurs, spikes, conformable shoes, and flat or radiused tread feet.
What happens if a ladder is discarded?
In the event a ladder is discarded, it must be destroyed in such a manner as to render it useless. Another person must not be afforded the opportunity to use a ladder that has been deemed unsafe. When transporting ladders on vehicles equipped with ladder racks, the ladders must be properly supported.
When is an extension adjustment made on a ladder?
Adjustment of Extension Ladders must be made by the user when standing at the base of the ladder so that proper engagement of the Rung Locks can be observed. Under no circumstances is an extension adjustment to be made when anyone is standing on the ladder. It is also the user’s responsibility to make sure the extension rope is tracking correctly in the pulley.
How to make a ladder?
Photo 1: Set the ladder angle. Set your ladder at the correct angle. Put your toes against the ladder's feet. Stand straight up and extend your arms. The palms of your hands should just reach the ladder's rung.
How to stop a ladder from slipping?
Dig a trench under the high-side foot when your ladder is on uneven ground. Flip the shoes up when you're setting up the ladder on soft ground. The spurs will dig in and prevent the ladder from slipping.
Why do you need ties on a ladder?
This is especially important if you'll be stepping onto a roof (Photo 4).Ties will prevent the ladder from sliding sideways as you step to and from the roof.
What are the accessories that help stabilize a ladder?
There are a couple of add-on accessories that help stabilize the top of ladders. The first is a pair of rubber or soft plastic “mitts” (from hardware stores and home centers) that slip over the top of the ladder's rails. They provide a better grip on the siding and protect it from ladder damage.
Can you put a ladder on a sloped lot?
Instead, buy adjustable leg-leveling extensions that bolt onto the bottom of your ladder. You'll use them often if you live on a sloped lot. To see what's available, check the ladder manufacturer's catalog or a store that sells your ladder brand.
Can a ladder slide on a wall?
You also have to make sure the top of the ladder can't slide when the rails rest against a wall. Make sure the ladder is vertical and the top is resting on an even surface. Angling the ladder to the left or right to reach a remote spot is asking for trouble.
Is it safe to climb a ladder?
Climbing a ladder can be safe, even under the less-than-perfect situations you find around your home. We'll show some easy ways to provide solid footing and a stable top to avoid heart-stopping experiences. Setting the ladder at the correct angle is one of the most important steps to a safe ladder setup.
How far should an extension ladder be?
Extension ladders range in length from 16 feet to 40 feet. Extension ladders, also known as non-self-supported or leaning ladders should extend a minimum distance of 3 feet past the edge they rest against but not more than 4 feet.
How long is a 24 foot extension ladder?
For example, a 24 foot extension ladder will consist of two sections each 12 feet long, but the maximum extended length will be 21 feet, because the sections overlap by no less than 1-1/2 feet when the ladder is at maximum extension. Extension Ladder Footing.
What is an extension ladder?
Extension ladders usually have two sections that operate with brackets or guides that allow for the ladder to be used at adjustable lengths. Extension ladders are not self-supporting and require a stable structure that can withstand the intended load.
What should you do to avoid overexertion while setting up an extension ladder?
When setting up an extension ladder, use the following method to avoid straining muscles or losing control of a ladder. With ladders weighing more than 25 kg (55 lb), or where conditions complicate the task, have two persons set up a ladder, step by step, as follows:
What should you avoid when using extension ladders?
Do not use ladders near power lines. Keep ladders and other tools at least 10 feet away from power lines.
How to erect a ladder?
Lay a ladder on the ground close to intended location. Brace ladder base using helpers' feet. Grasp the top rung with both hands, raise the top end over your head and walk toward the base of a ladder. Grasp the centre of the rungs to maintain stability. Move the erect ladder to the desired location.
How to raise a ladder from the ground?
Place the ladder feet so that the horizontal distance between the feet and the top support is 1/4 of the working length of the ladder. The ladder will be leaning at a 75 degree angle from the ground. Raise and lower ladders from the ground. Ensure that locking ladder hooks are secure before climbing. For access to an elevated work surface, erect ...
How to raise a short ladder?
One person can erect a short ladder, step by step as follows: Place the bottom of a ladder firmly against the base of a building or stationary object. Lift the top of ladder, and pull upwards to raise a ladder to a vertical position.
What is the method for lowering any ladder?
The method for lowering any ladder is the reverse procedure of erecting it.
How to secure a ladder to the wall?
The ladder should not slide or wobble when you put weight against it. Whenever practical, tie off the top of the ladder to further secure it to the wall. [5]
How to stabilize a ladder?
1. Utilize accessories to help stabilize the top of the ladder. There are a variety of tasks that call for a ladder, and a variety of accessories for the top of ladders that can help you more easily and safely complete those tasks.
How to get a ladder to reach rung?
The simplest way to achieve this is by standing with your toes touching the feet of the ladder and extending your arms forward. Your palms should be able to reach a rung of the ladder when your arms are fully extended.
How to prevent ladder accidents?
Inspect your ladder for damage often. Checking all the moving parts, like feet and rung locks, as well as the overall integrity of the ladder, can prevent the worst of accidents. It’s also important that the ladder is clean of any foreign substances that could be slippery, sticky, corrosive, conductive, or otherwise an added hazard to using the ladder.
How many points of contact should you have on a ladder?
Climb the ladder maintaining three points of contact. You should always climb one rung at a time, moving only one hand or one foot at a time. Always face the ladder as you climb, and only use the rungs to climb opposed to the side rails.
Why use a ladder stabilizer?
Ladder stabilizers basically widen the points at which the top of the ladder rests. This can be useful to protect fragile siding or to clear the width of a window. Single support attachments are necessary whenever the ladder is leaned against a surface narrower than the width of the ladder, like a telephone pole.
How to climb a ladder?
You always want the step ladder to face the work. Climb facing the ladder. Go one step at a time always with both hands holding onto it. You never want to climb to the top step.
