Supported and Suspended Access
Supported Access
Portable ladders, supported scaffolds, and aerial lifts let you get to a work area and support you while you work.
Scaffolds, ladders, and aerial lifts make getting to a work area easy, but they can cause falls when they're not used properly.
Portable Ladders
Portable ladders are versatile, economical, and easy to use. However, workers sometimes use them without thinking about using them safely. Each year, most workers are injured when they fall from ladders. Most of these falls are from heights less than 10 feet.
Avoid electrical hazard! Be sure to look for overhead power lines or exposed energized electrical equipment befor handling a portable ladder.
Types of portable ladders
We use ladders to do all sorts of tasks, so it's not surprising that many types of ladders are available.
Straight Ladder. The most common type of portable ladder. Length cannot exceed 30 feet. Available in wood, metal, and reinforced fiberglass. Supports only one worker.
Extension Ladder. Extension ladders offer the most length in a general-purpose ladder. They have two or more adjustable sections. The sliding upper section must be on top of the lower section. Made of wood, metal, or fiberglass. Maximum length depends on material. Supports only one worker.
Standard Folding Ladder. Folding ladders have flat steps, a hinged back, and is not adjustable. For use only on firm, level surfaces. Available in metal, wood, or reinforced fiberglass. Must have a metal spreader or locking arm and cannot exceed 20 feet. Supports only one worker.
Platform Ladder. Platform ladders have a large, stable platform near the top that supports one worker. Length cannot exceed 20 feet.
Trestle Ladder. Trestle ladders have two sections that are hinged at the top and form equal angles with the base. They are used in pairs to support planks or staging. Length cannot exceed 20 feet.
Trestle ladders must not be used unless their bases are spread fully open and the Spreaders locked. Extension Trestle Ladders are not to be used as Single Ladders or in the partially open position.
Tripod (Orchard) Ladder. Tripod ladders have a flared base and a single back leg that provides support on soft, uneven ground. Length cannot exceed 16 feet. Metal and reinforced fiberglass versions are available. Supports only one worker.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
4-1. What should you look for before handling a portable ladder?
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