Using a ladder on a construction site is second nature for many people, such as roofers and painters. However, just because you’re used to using a ladder doesn’t mean you can take risks with your safety.
There are several tips you can follow to ensure your safety every time you use a ladder on a construction site:
- Inspect the ladder before use: The primary purpose of this is to pinpoint anything that’s wrong with the ladder, such as rust or missing rungs. If you notice anything that could be a safety hazard, take the ladder out of service for the time being.
- Don’t use a ladder in inclement weather: For example, it’s a challenge to climb a ladder in strong wind, as it has the potential to knock you to the ground below. If the weather isn’t cooperating, stay on the ground until things change.
- Maintain three points of contact: You must always have three points of contact on the ladder. There are two ways of doing so: one hand and two feet, or two hands and one foot.
- Don’t place your ladder by traffic: This holds true of both foot and vehicular traffic. When you do this, you increase the risk or someone or something hitting the ladder while it’s in use.
- One person at a time: Even if you’re in a hurry to get a job done, it’s important that only one person uses the ladder at a time. If two or more people are using the ladder, it only takes one false move to injure everyone.
- Place the ladder on level and firm ground: You can’t place your ladder just anywhere and assume that it’s safe. Carefully inspect the location before you take your first step.
By following these ladder safety tips, you reduce the risk of an accident. But remember, you don’t eliminate it completely.
Should you suffer an injury as a result of a workplace ladder accident, report the incident to your employer and seek medical attention. Any injury that keeps you out of work, such as a broken back or concussion, can lead you to file a workers’ compensation claim.