Regardless of your specific job or industry, you may experience a time when you need to use a portable ladder while at work. The use of such a ladder may be integral to the nature of your job, such as if you are in construction or custodial services. You may also need to use a ladder to access something you need for your job.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration oversees the safe use of equipment such as ladders in the workplace. Knowing the guidelines on how to safely use a portable ladder is important.
Ladder condition and positioning
OSHA’s guidelines indicate that damaged ladders or ladders with unsafe or slippery surfaces should not be utilized on the job. Equipment should be inspected to ensure it is safe for use by employees. The angle at which a ladder is positioned must also be monitored to ensure it meets OSHA’s standards. Similarly, the ladder must always be used on a stable foundation or ground.
Use once in place
Once a ladder is in place, all locks should be engaged fully. Weight limits for the ladder should be adhered to and these include any tools as well as the weight of the person on the ladder. A person should always keep either two hands and one foot or one hand and two feet on the ladder at all times.
This information is not intended to provide legal advice but is instead meant to give people in New York on overview of some of the guidelines put forth by OSHA regarding the use of portable ladders in the workplace.