Roof Access and Ladder Safety Checklist

Purpose: Ensure safe access to and from the roof using ladders, and secure the ladder to prevent accidents.

Pre-Operation Checks

• Ladder Inspection

  • Check for any loose, broken, or missing rungs, split side rails, or other defects. Remove defective ladders from service immediately [1].
  • Ensure the ladder is free of oil, grease, and other slipping hazards [2].
  • Verify that the ladder is not painted, except with a transparent protective coating [1].

• Ladder Placement

  • Place the ladder on a stable and level surface [2].
  • Ensure the ladder is placed at an angle where the horizontal distance from the top support to the foot of the ladder is approximately one-quarter of the working length of the ladder [2].
  • Ensure the ladder extends at least 1 meter above the roof or landing [3].

During Operation

• Securing the Ladder

  • Secure the ladder against accidental movement during use [3].
  • If the ladder cannot extend 3 feet above the landing, secure it at the top to a rigid support and provide a grasping device [2].

• Climbing Safety

  • Maintain a three-point stance on the ladder at all times [3].
  • Do not carry objects that could cause loss of balance while climbing [4].
  • Use non-conductive ladders near energized electrical equipment [5].

Post-Operation

• Ladder Storage
  • Store ladders in a dry, secure area to prevent damage.
  • Ensure ladders are not left unattended in areas where they could be a tripping hazard or be displaced by workplace activities [2].

Fall Protection

• Personal Fall Arrest Systems
  • Use a personal fall arrest system if working from a height of 3 meters or more [6].
  • Ensure the fall arrest system is properly rigged and attached to an anchor point capable of supporting the required load [7].

Corrective Actions

• Document any issues found during the inspection and the corrective actions taken.

Signature

• Inspector Name: ______________________
• Date: ______________________

This checklist is designed to ensure compliance with safety regulations and to prevent accidents during roof access and ladder use.