Precautions
Recommended precautions to protect employees from falls from ladders include:
- Place the ladder's base a distance away from the wall or upper support equal to one-quarter the effective working length of the ladder. This represents about a 4:1 height to base ratio. That will approximate the optimum resistance to sliding, strength of the ladder, and balance of the climber. The angle of the ladder will be about 75 degrees.
- Always maintain a 3-point (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand) contact on the ladder when climbing. Keep your body near the middle of the step and always face the ladder while climbing.
Always maintain a 3-point contact on the ladder when climbing.
- Before using a ladder, be sure to read and follow all the labels and markings on the ladder.
- Look for overhead power lines before handling a ladder. Avoid using a metal ladder near power lines or exposed energized electrical equipment.
- Always inspect a ladder for damage before using it. If the ladder is damaged, it must be removed from service and tagged until repaired or discarded.
- Only use ladders and appropriate accessories (ladder levelers, jacks or hooks) for their designed purposes.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
3-3. Ladders should be placed at about a _____ angle to achieve a 4:1 height to base ratio.
You forgot to answer the question!