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603 Stairway and Ladder Safety
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Necessary Questions

Ask these questions before deciding on a ladder:

  • Can the job be done from ground level?
  • Will workers hold heavy items while on the ladder?
  • Does the elevated area require a long ladder that can be unstable?
  • Will workers perform work at this height over an extended period of time?
  • Will working on a ladder require standing sideways or reaching?
  • Are there any obstructions preventing safe ladder use?
  • Is the ground uneven or unstable, and can't be corrected?
Two pieces of heavy equipment a crane and scissor lift
A ladder won't work or may not be needed in all situations. You may be able to use another solution.

If the answer to any of these questions above is "Yes," then you may need to consider using something other than a ladder. For minor jobs, like changing ceiling light bulbs, you can use extension poles. For big jobs, you may need to bring in other equipment such as a scissor lift or scaffolding.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

1-2. Which of the following jobs should you consider using something other than a ladder?